JP2011515758A - Acquisition of real-time shopper behavior data at the time of shopper selection - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a system for collecting actual real-time shopper behavior data when a shopper selects a product in the store. Specifically, using a communication network, a device that captures a first true moment, and a data collection device, real-time shopper behavior data for the shopper's estimated location in the store, and Disclosed herein is a system for tracking the time spent reviewing selections and where the time was spent and the merchandise selected for purchase.
[Selection] Figure 1A

Description

(Claim of priority for related applications)
No. 12 / 408,581 filed on Mar. 20, 2009 and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 12 / 353,817 filed on Jan. 14, 2009. No. 12 / 353,760, filed Jan. 14, 2009, U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 12 / 172,326, filed Jul. 14, 2008, 2007 US Patent Application No. 11 / 859,703, filed September 21, and US Provisional Patent Application 61 / 070,344, filed March 21, 2008 Reference is made to the priority and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  The present invention provides a system and method for collecting actual real-time shopper behavior data while the shopper is shopping in the store. In particular, a system and method for obtaining shopper behavior data during shoppers' product selection in a store is provided, affecting the shopper's future product selection before, during, and after the first true moment. The systems and methods that affect

  Understanding shoppers' behavior in the store has become a top priority for retailers, merchandisers, data collectors, and large store owners. In the past, it has been difficult to understand and then predict the shopper's behavior at the time of decision making, i.e. the first true moment. It was also difficult to obtain knowledge about the flow of shoppers in the store. Data obtained after a shopper purchases a plurality of items and leaves the store, that is, data collected after the point of sale (POS) is generally the only consistent actual grasp data. Those skilled in the art have successfully tracked such purchases through interviews to gain further insights, but even such interviews can signal instantaneous shopper behavior, ie, real-time shopper behavior prospects, and A signal for knowing the actual flow line and judgment path of the shopper in the store is missed.

  The first moment of truth (FMOT) is 1) the selection of a product is considered, 2) the product is actually selected, and 3) the length of time a shopper spends considering the selection of a particular product. And 4) product selection that includes the shop's estimated in-store location relative to the location of the product at the moment of decision making.

  The length of time a shopper spends considering the selection of a particular product is generally considered to be in the range of about 3 to 7 seconds, but varies by shopper, and those skilled in the art will often make the difference. I understand. Regardless of the actual time required, FMOT includes a shopper's decision-making process in a store, store shelf, end cap, kiosk, stand-alone display, in-store or other display means known to those skilled in the art.

  Merchandisers selling merchandise in retail stores spend billions of dollars annually trying to influence shopper behavior during FMOT and during shopper travel. Currently, real-time empirical understanding of the shopper's behavior and the factors (if any) that affect the shopper at the first true moment remain a mystery.

  While it is important to try to understand the shopper's behavior at FMOT, it can be applied consistently, provides an overall picture of the shopper's shopping behavior, works well, is reproducible, and It is also important to provide a system for such discovery that is a true measure of the overall shopping behavior.

  The prior art provides that the use of RFID to track the movement of goods within a store can be helpful. Those skilled in the art using RFID for merchandise in a retail environment will find that merchandise containing RFID tags is less than 10% and often less than 2% of all merchandise in a retail environment (such as a grocery store). You will be fully aware of that. Even if the RFID tag is attached to the shopping cart, only useful information regarding the in-store movement path of the shopping cart can be obtained rather than what the shopper selects from the store shelf, the end cap or the like. As such, such an approach does not provide insight into the shopper's product selection.

  US Pat. No. 6,659,344 provides a system for collecting data regarding shopper behavior in the retail market. In that specification, a scanner is attached to a shopping basket and configured to detect by RFID that an item has left the shelf, such item being equipped with one or more RFID tags. An obvious limitation in this approach is that, once again, the use of RFID tags available for in-store merchandise is limited. The reliance on RFID makes it less likely that very useful shopper behavior data will be collected that may provide insights about the shopper.

  So, what remains is the ability to track the location of shoppers throughout the store in real time, knowledge about the items the shopper has selected for purchase, knowledge of the locations in the store where the shopper has selected items for purchase, And a need for a system that can select actual and / or real-time shopper behavior data for each item selected by the shopper for purchase, with knowledge of the time taken for the decision making process. It is also important to enhance computer-aided simulation models using all such real-time shopper behavior data. Doing so will help improve the accuracy of computer simulations that predict shopper behavior.

  Thus, the present invention provides a system for obtaining actual real-time shopper behavior data close to the moment of shopper decision making in a store filled with one or more purchaseable items. The system is adapted to be communicatively connected to the communication network located in the store, at least one data collection device in active communication with the communication network, and the communication network in the store. And a device for capturing a first true moment. The device that captures the first true moment is used to collect actual real-time shopper behavior data that is close to the moment of decision by the shopper of one or more purchaseable items. A preferred communication network is a multi-network.

  Preferably, the system captures the first true moment to influence the shopper's decision before, during or after the shopper's decision moment on one or more purchaseable items. Send one or more influence messages to the device.

  When the shopper uses the FMOT device, the shopper's response or no response to one or more influence messages can be tracked. Such response or no response is then recorded and stored as part of the shopper's real-time shopper behavior data. In an alternative embodiment herein, the impact message delivered to the shopper by the system herein does not include a device that captures the first true moment, such as a mobile phone, PDA, or wireless enabled MP3 device. Delivered to the shopper by the device.

  The actual real-time shopper behavior data herein includes the identification of one or more purchaseable items considered for purchase and the shopper's decision to decide whether or not to select one or more purchaseable items. It includes the length of time spent and the estimated location of the shopper in the store. The actual real-time shopper behavior data also includes one or more purchases selected for purchase by the shopper when the item being considered for purchase is selected by the shopper for the actual purchase. Contains identification information for possible items. If a shopper who selects an item for purchase changes his intentions before purchase, such a decision is also recorded as part of the actual real-time shopper behavior data, marking the item as “deselected” Preferably it is done.

  As mentioned above, the system comprises one or more data collection devices. The actual real-time shopper behavior data is transmitted to one or more data collection devices each communicatively coupled to the communication network. In practice, these data collection devices acquire and organize actual real-time shopper data.

  The estimated position of the shopper who is shopping is known. The condition for such a position to be known is that there is a device that captures the first true moment in the proximity of the shopper and that the FMOT device is assigned to that shopper. A preferred method by which the estimated location of the shopper is known is continuous or nearly continuous location tracking. That is, the device for capturing the first true moment comprises a location tracking device that creates location tracking data while the shopper spends time in the store. Preferably, the data collection device stores history progress data including position tracking data. Alternatively, all or at least a portion of the position tracking data may be stored on a device that captures the first true moment.

  In practice, the location tracking data is obtained by a device that captures the first real moment from around the time when the location tracking device is associated with the communication network until around the time when the location tracking device is no longer associated with the communication network. Collected.

  In the store, the one or more purchaseable items comprise on their surface readable media for receiving a scan by a device that captures the first true moment. The readable media includes merchandise identification information for one or more of the purchasable items and / or a bundled group of items such as a six pack soda.

  While the specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, the embodiments are believed to be better understood by reference to the accompanying figures. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference number represents the same element.

1A to 1D show a state in which a shopper selects a product from an end cap in the store at the moment of decision making. 2A to 2D show a state in which a shopper selects a product from a store shelf along a passage in the store at the moment of decision making. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the process by which a shopper selects merchandise in the store and the communication process between the location tracking device and the data collection device in the proximity of the shopper selecting the product from the store; In the figure, this communication is performed via a communication network in the store. FIG. 4 shows a front view of a device that captures a “first true moment” that a shopper uses in the store to communicate with a data collection device (ie, a wireless termination device). FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of a store with an exemplary store-based multi-network for communication. 6A and 6B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary mesh communication network useful for collecting actual real-time shopper behavior data at the store. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary star communication network that is useful for collecting actual real-time shopper behavior data at a store. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a store providing an exemplary star communication network and mesh communication network to help collect actual real-time shopper behavior data at the store. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a store providing an exemplary communication multi-network. FIG. 10 is a diagram of an exemplary process in which the location tracking subsystem operates. FIG. 11A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a location tracking subsystem. FIG. 11B shows an exemplary embodiment of a location tracking subsystem. FIG. 11C shows an exemplary embodiment of a location tracking subsystem. FIG. 11D shows an exemplary embodiment of a location tracking subsystem. FIG. 12 shows a simplified schematic diagram of the position tracking subsystem.

  The invention herein provides a system for obtaining actual real-time shopper behavior data that is close to the moment of decision making by a shopper in a store filled with one or more purchaseable items. The system is adapted to be communicatively connected to a communication network located in the vicinity of the store, at least one data collection device in active communication with the communication network, and the communication network in the store. And a device for capturing one true moment. The device that captures the first true moment is used to collect actual real-time shopper behavior data that is close to the moment of decision by the shopper of one or more purchaseable items. A preferred communication network is a multi-network.

  Preferably, the system captures the first true moment to influence the shopper's decision before, during or after the shopper's decision moment on one or more purchaseable items. Send one or more influence messages to the device.

  When the shopper uses the FMOT device, the shopper's response or no response to one or more influence messages can be tracked. Such response or no response is then recorded and stored as part of the shopper's real-time shopper behavior data. In an alternative embodiment herein, the impact message delivered to the shopper by the system herein does not include a device that captures the first true moment, such as a mobile phone, PDA, or wireless enabled MP3 device. Delivered to the shopper by the device.

  The actual real-time shopper behavior data herein includes the identification of one or more purchaseable items considered for purchase and the shopper's decision to decide whether or not to select one or more purchaseable items. It includes the length of time spent and the estimated location of the shopper in the store. The actual real-time shopper behavior data also includes one or more purchases selected for purchase by the shopper when the item being considered for purchase is selected by the shopper for the actual purchase. Contains identification information for possible items. If a shopper who selects an item for purchase changes his intentions before purchase, such a decision is also recorded as part of the actual real-time shopper behavior data, marking the item as “deselected” Preferably it is done. All shopper choices are recorded and recorded in real time.

  As mentioned above, the system comprises one or more data collection devices. The actual real-time shopper behavior data is transmitted to one or more data collection devices each communicatively coupled to the communication network. In practice, these data collection devices acquire and organize actual real-time shopper data.

  The estimated position of the shopper who is shopping is grasped. As long as there is a device that captures the first true moment in the proximity of the shopper and the FMOT device is assigned to that shopper, such location is known. A preferred method by which the estimated location of the shopper is known is continuous or nearly continuous location tracking. That is, the device that captures the first true moment comprises a location tracking device or mechanism that creates location tracking data while the shopper spends time in the store. Preferably, the data collection device stores history progress data including position tracking data. Alternatively, all or at least a portion of the position tracking data may be stored on a device that captures the first true moment.

  In practice, the location tracking data is obtained by a device that captures the first real moment from around the time when the location tracking device is associated with the communication network until around the time when the location tracking device is no longer associated with the communication network. Collected.

  In the store, the one or more purchaseable items comprise on their surface readable media for receiving a scan by a device that captures the first true moment. The readable media includes merchandise identification information for one or more of the purchasable items and / or a bundled group of items such as a six pack soda.

  As used herein, the term “actual real-time shopper behavior data” means a combination of shopper identification data, location tracking data, product scan data, and product selection timing data. Ideally, real-time shopper behavior data also includes the shopper's personal profile and demographic profile.

  As used herein, the term “device that captures the first true moment”, “FMOT device”, “wireless terminator”, or “WED” refers to wireless communication via the communication network herein. Means a handheld or small portable electronic device that operates on, such as scanning readable media on an item for purchase, or using an fmot device to communicate an estimated location of a shopper be able to.

  As used herein, the term “product scanning device” refers to a device capable of scanning readable media such as barcodes, UPC codes, and other machine-readable symbols and codes, and an imaging device capable of taking pictures However, it is not limited to this. The merchandise scanning apparatus generates merchandise scan data from other types of data disclosed in this specification. If a phrase such as “Scanned product” or “Product is selected and then scanned” or a similar expression that represents a scan of the product is used in this document, the product barcode or Means that readable media is being scanned. The preferred merchandise scanning device herein is an FMOT device.

  As used herein, the terms “barcode”, “UPC code”, and “readable media” refer to any code that is machine-readable by the commodity scanning device (such as FMOT device) disclosed herein. means.

  As used herein, the term “data collection device” means one or more electronic devices that comprise a switch and a server grade computer having sufficient memory to store a large amount of data. The data collection device is a store computer such as a switch, a gateway server, a store-related person task management server, a computer-assisted order system computer, a point-of-sale information management terminal, an in-store processor (ISP server), a location tracking server, a commercial server, or a book Other logic engine functions useful for processing and / or storing data, including but not limited to all of the data-related functions described in the specification, may be performed.

  As used herein, the term “estimated location” is tracked by one or more electronic devices, such as a device that captures the first true moment for a known merchandise location (FMOT device / wireless termination device). It means the estimated position of shoppers or store personnel. The reason for the shopper's location being estimated is that the store is tracking the location of the location tracking device that is preferably held within the FMOT device herein and held near the shopper.

  FIGS. 1A-1D depict the process by which the shopper 7 selects items from the end cap 22 for purchase at the first true moment of the shopper in the store. Although these figures depict end caps, this process may be used in kiosks, displays, or any other group of goods that are not located on one or more standard store shelves. FIG. 1A to FIG. 1D depict pictures of the shopper's actions at the first true moment in the store. FIG. 1A shows the situation when the shopper approaches the end cap 22 in the store 5.

  The shopper 7 of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D owns a device 50 that captures the first true moment, a wireless terminator 50 (FIG. 4), described in detail hereinbelow. It shows how they are doing. In FIGS. 1A-1D, there is a location tracking subsystem that operates between the data collection device and the FMOT device 50 via an in-store communication network, described in more detail below. Is not shown. In practice, the FMOT device 50 transmits and receives data via one or more information routers 12. In this specification, the data collection device 23 (FIGS. 5, 7A, and 9) and the store communication network 10 (FIGS. 5 and 9) allow a shopper in the store 5 to move to the end cap 22, It is possible to grasp whether the position when stopping and then leaving is grasped in real time. During shopping, as the shopper 7 moves through the store with the device 50 that captures the first true moment, its assumed position is tracked.

  FIG. 1A shows the shopper 7 stopping at the end cap 22 while considering a purchase option. In one embodiment herein, the shopper 7 stands in front of a large row of laundry detergent, for example. In FIG. 1B, shopper 7 has selected product 35 from end cap 22. In FIG. 1C, the shopper 7 scans a readable medium (not shown) on the selected product 35. When scanning the product 35 in this way, several important functions are performed. Each of these is described below.

  First, identification information of the scanned product 35 is transmitted by the FMOT device 50 via the communication network 10 of the store, and the transmitted information is received via one or more information routers 12. Finally, the data is transferred to the data collection device 23.

  Second, the data collection device 23 also records and stores the moment when the shopper selects the item. Since the movement of the shopper 7 in the store can be evaluated little by little in real time, the length of time spent by the shopper 7 in considering the selection of the product can also be grasped. This time can be tracked by the timing device in the FMOT device 50 or the data collection device 23. In this specification, this tracking time is referred to as product selection timing data.

  Third, since the position of the shopper 7 in the store 5 is grasped in real time, the position is attached to the identification information of the selected product 35.

  Finally, the process is completed, the selected item is selected, and the manner in which the shopper 7 places the selected item 35 into the shopping cart is not only considered for purchase, but is actually selected for purchase. It is shown as a testimony.

  As used herein, the term “location tracking data” refers to the location immediately before the shopper at the time of selection when the shopper is moving throughout the store. One specific area of interest is when the shopper experiences a device that captures the first true moment, i.e., the first true moment when the location tracking device is in close proximity to the shopper moving through the store. It may include the position immediately before the shopper when tracking the device to be captured.

  From all the above steps, the evaluation of the behavior of the shopper 7 in the store 5 can be started. By tracking the entire shopping activity of the shopper 7 including the scanned items, the person's actual real-time shopping behavior in the store can be tracked and analyzed, and if that behavior is further understood, May affect behavior. The data collection device 23 compiles the product selection timing data, the position tracking data, and the product scan data, and then creates actual real-time shopper behavior data.

  In addition, the system of the present specification creates the product selection timing data by tracking the length of time that the shopper 7 spends at the decision-making moment for product selection (ie, the first true moment). The time at which the shopper 7 reviews the merchandise is preferably tracked electronically with the FMOT device 50, the data collection device 23, or both. This timing begins when the system detects that the shopper 7 is in the first true moment.

  In practice, the system herein detects when the shopper's 7 movement speed is significantly lower than the average speed of the person and when the person's estimated position is in front of the merchandise display in the store. And detecting that the person is considering selecting a product. Part of this detection involves a comparison of two relative speeds between the time to consider purchasing a product and the typical in-store movement of the shopper.

  Next, the data collection device 23 acquires and arranges product scan data, position tracking data, and product selection timing data, and creates actual real-time shopper behavior data. In the exemplary embodiment, the data collection device 23 collects actual real-time shopper behavior data associated with the shopper 7 from two or more visits to the store 5 to provide a shopper for a particular shopper. 7 Create action pattern data. The data collection device 23 also collects shopper demographic data for classifying all groups (female, male, domestic region, holiday behavior, etc.) in order to collect data that is a basis for judgment of shopper behavior data. create.

  Further, the data collection device 23 collects and stores history progress data. This data is the sum of almost all of the position tracking data collected from the time when the position tracking device is associated with the communication network 10 to the time when the shopper 7 has paid and left the store 5.

  The data collection device 23 collects shopping timing data for each shopping for each shopper. In an alternative embodiment, the timing device collects shopping timing data. The shopping timing data is obtained when the association between the FMOT device and the communication network 10 is released from the first moment when the device 50 that captures the first true moment of the shopper is associated with the communication network 10 in the store 5. It means the length of time spent by the shopper in the store.

  It ’s important to note that a supplier who wants to place an item in the store for purchase uses actual real-time shopper behavior data, shopper behavior pattern data, and / or clear behavior pattern data, Determining how to place in-store products, how to place in-store products, the geographical location where to place in-house products, the optimal pricing for in-house products, and many other demographic decisions I do. Similarly, a store uses actual real-time shopper behavior data, shopper behavior pattern data, and / or explicit behavior pattern data to determine which products to place in which geographic region of which store. The price of one or more items to be displayed, the content of one or more influential messages used to influence the shopper, and / or an in-store display of one or more items that the supplier supplies to the store Determine the position.

  In the exemplary embodiment, the data collection device 23 functions as the main database of the store, the main data repository. Functionally, the data collection device 23 organizes, manages and stores data received from other components of the store communication network 10. Further, the data collection device 23 delivers data to other elements of the communication network 10, that is, the FMOT device 50 and the information router 12.

  In the exemplary embodiment, the data collection device 23 performs ray tracing calculations and blind node (ie, FMOT device 50) location calculations to determine its location relative to the information router 12, and ultimately within the store 5. It is possible to determine its own position with respect to the position. The data collection device 23 creates product selection timing data, store visit timing data, and actual real-time shopper behavior data. The data collection device 23 is preferably in the store 5 but may be central to two or more physical electronic devices, so that the data collection device 23 is either completely contained within the store premises or is retail. It only needs to be located both inside and outside the store building.

  As described above, the FMOT device 50 operates via the communication network 10 as (1) a location tracking device for tracking each of the shoppers' estimated locations in the store and (2) creating location tracking data. Is adapted to be. Alternatively, a location tracking device in physical proximity to and communicating with FMOT device 50 may communicate (1) to track each of the shoppers' estimated locations within the store and (2) to create location tracking data. It operates via the network 10.

  FIGS. 2A-2D represent a process similar to the process of FIGS. 1A-1D for merchandise selection by the shopper 7 except that such merchandise selection is performed along the merchandise path 24 at the merchandise shelf.

  FIG. 2A shows the shopper 7 approaching the in-store passage 24 where the product 35 is arranged. In FIG. 2B, the shopper 7 selects the selected product 35 from the shelf in the passage 24. FIG. 2C represents a shopper 7 who scans the identification information of a selected item using a device that captures a first true moment, referred to herein as FMOT device 50. In such a scan, product scan data is created and transmitted via a communication network in the store to a data collection device that collects and organizes the data. Finally, FIG. 2D represents the shopper 7 putting the selected item 35 in the shopping cart in use.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart detailing a collection of data from the shopper's actions in a retail environment such as the grocery store 5. In the first case, a shopper with an FMOT device 50 including a position tracking device and a product scanning device starts shopping in the store.

  When activated, FMOT device 50 is associated wirelessly with in-store communication network 10. When the association is established, the communication network continuously tracks and updates each of the estimated positions of the shopper 7 in the store by the FMOT device 50. FMOT device 50 is preferably adapted to operate as or be associated with a position tracking device.

  Alternatively, even if not continuously tracked or updated, each estimated position of the shopper is tracked and updated by the data collection device 23 at predetermined intervals such as every 5 seconds, every 15 seconds, and every 30 seconds. Those skilled in the art will note that the tracking and renewal period chosen is arbitrary for the exact interval chosen, and that such intervals may be chosen by the store manager (or other employee) according to company instructions. It will be easy to understand. As long as an appropriate time interval is selected according to the needs of the retail environment 5, the inventive criteria of this specification are satisfied.

  A shopper 7 who has moved forward in the course of his / her shopping is a product that is not a store shelf, such as a position in front of a store shelf (shown in FIGS. 2A to 2D) or an end cap 22 (shown in FIGS. 1A to 1D). From the display, the selected product 35 is selected for purchase. Once selected, the shopper scans the bar code of the item 35 selected for purchase. By scanning the bar code at the moment of selection or shortly thereafter, the shopper 7 registers the identification information of the selected product 35. By scanning the product 35 selected for purchase at or near the original display location, the shopper's estimated location is known via the location tracking device within the FMOT device 50, That position is also registered. In such a scan, the product identification information is transmitted via the communication network by an appropriate device such as the data collection device 23 (FIGS. 5 and 9) attached to the communication network, or the product identification information is FMOT. It may be stored in a memory provided in device 50, or both may be performed.

  As described above, the movement of the shopper in the store 5 is tracked (preferably continuously or almost continuously) because the identification information of each selected product 35 and the selection position thereof are known. Yes. By collecting this data, the shopper's behavior can be collected in real time and can be evaluated later in real time or when the shopper has finished shopping.

  In an exemplary embodiment, once the shopper 7 has collected all the items he / she wishes to purchase, the person may include, but is not limited to, paying at the checkout line, paying the bill through the FMOT device 50, and prepaid online. Exit store 5 with one or more payment methods.

  The store 5 includes one or more items displayed for the store. In the exemplary embodiment, each of the one or more items comprises a barcode. The shopper selects a selected item for purchase from one or more items in the store.

  Next, the shopper 7 scans the readable media included in the selected product 35 with the FMOT device 50, and creates product scan data of the scanned product 35. Such product scan data includes, but is not limited to, identification information (by name and / or in-house code) and price for each product. In the exemplary embodiment, the merchandise scan data also includes identification information for merchandise manufacturers and merchants supplying the store. The product scan data may include the weight of the product 35 selected for purchase by the shopper or an equivalent unit of measure. Preferably, the product scan data includes a date / time stamp indicating the scan time of the readable medium included in the selected product 35.

  The communication network 10 included in one or more systems disclosed herein is a communication multi-network. That is, the communication network 10 includes two or more similar or different communication networks 10. For example, the communication multi-network includes at least two mesh communication networks through which each FMOT device 50 operates. Alternative embodiments of the communication multi-network include a communication multi-network having at least one mesh communication network and at least one star communication network in which the FMOT device 50 herein operates. The communication multi-network may include two or more star communication networks.

  In the preferred practice of this specification, the communication network 10 includes a “mesh network organizer” which is a radio in the mesh communication network. The mesh network organizer exchanges information, also called packets or data, between the information router and the store central computer. In one embodiment, the mesh network organizer exchanges location tracking data between the information router and the data collection device 23. In one embodiment, the mesh network organizer communicates with the data collection device via an Ethernet cable while the information router, FMOT device 50, intelligent shopping cart, HVAC monitor and control, security system, traffic counter, and Those skilled in the art include, but are not limited to, other electronic devices that are attached to the mesh communication network, and other electronic devices that are predicted to be attached to the mesh communication network. Wirelessly.

  Communication between the information routers 12 may or may not be wired. Communication between the information router 12 and the mesh network organizer may or may not be wired. Functionally, the mesh network organizer distributes location tracking data between the store associate's wireless terminal and the shopper's FMOT device 50 to one or more managers herein. Since the mesh network organizer transmits data via a wireless device, it broadcasts or radiates radio waves to other components of the mesh communication network.

  As used herein, the term “data communication radio” refers to a radio in a star communication network. As used herein, a data communication radio refers to a hub node of a star communication network, also called a central node. The data communication radio exchanges data information, also called a packet or data, between the FMOT device 50 and the data collection device 23. In one embodiment, the data communication radio transmits data via a wire, such as an Ethernet cable, when communicating with the data collection device, while the FMOT device 50, intelligent shopping cart, and / or It communicates simultaneously with other blind nodes and electrical devices attached to the star communication network wirelessly via the star communication network. Data communication radios do not communicate strictly in a straight line, but broadcast or radiate radio waves to other components of the star communication network.

  The term “information router” is used to send and receive information via a mesh communication network with a device that captures the first real moment, a mesh network organizer, other information routers and other network devices. Means a stationary reference end node in the mesh communication network via Functionally, the information router communicates with other information routers and mesh network organizers wirelessly or by wire. In the exemplary embodiment, the information router communicates with the data collection device via a mesh network organizer. Each information router includes one radio. Specific examples include, but are not limited to, Texas Instruments models 2430 and 2431.

  The term “multi-network router” refers herein to a device that houses at least three microcontroller unit (MCU) radios, at least one of which functions as an information router for a mesh communication network, At least two function as data communication radios for the star communication network. Two of the at least three of these radios may be Texas Instruments models 2430 or 2431, but the third radio must be a more powerful controller, such as a Texas Instruments model above the 243x series . Functionally, a multi-network router communicates with other multi-network routers wirelessly or by wire. Ideally, the multi-network router communicates wirelessly to FMOT devices 50 and other electrical devices used by shoppers, store personnel, and managers in stores and store premises. The multi-network router communicates with the data collection device via the multi-network organizer.

  As used herein, the term “multi-network organizer” refers to a multi-network router equipped with a mesh network organizer rather than the usual information router of a mesh communication network. Accordingly, in an embodiment where the communication multi-network includes one star communication network and one mesh communication network, the multi-network organizer is a data communication radio for the star communication network and a mesh type existing in the communication multi-network. Operates as a mesh network organizer for communication networks. Functionally, the multi-network organizer may communicate wirelessly or wired with the multi-network router. Even if the multi-network organizer is capable of wireless communication, it is ideal that the multi-network organizer communicates with the data collection device by wire via an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable or the like.

  In some embodiments of the system, the data collection device correlates the product location map with actual real-time shopper behavior data. This correlation is extremely valuable data that can be used by stores and suppliers alike to have a better impact on shoppers at the first real moment. Of course, improved methods that affect shoppers increase the predictability of product selection, which is of course beneficial for both store and supplier business models.

  FIG. 4 depicts an apparatus 50 for capturing an exemplary first true moment as used herein. In particular, FIG. 4 shows a front view of the front of the FMOT device. The FMOT device 50 in this specification is preferably driven by a battery and is preferably rechargeable. This device can search the existing communication networks herein and associate itself (ie, attach itself wirelessly). The FMOT device 50 in this specification may be a device with reduced functions or a fully functional device. Preferably, FMOT device 50 includes a scanner 25 (not shown) that is convenient for shopper 7 to scan items to place one or more scanned items into a shopping cart. In this specification, the FMOT device 50 serves as a blind node in an existing communication network.

  The exemplary FMOT device 50 includes a position detection engine driven by one or more microcontroller units (MCUs). An exemplary embodiment of the MCU is Texas Instruments MCU model number CC2431. The CC2431 MCU is programmed with a specific algorithm, such as a ray tracing calculation that uses input information from the FMOT device 50 to determine its location. The location algorithm used in the CC2431 location engine is based on the received signal strength index (RSSI) value. As the distance increases, the RSSI value decreases.

  FIG. 5 shows an exemplary schematic plan view of the store 5. In particular, FIG. 5 represents a top view of a cross section of a store, where a shopper 7, store personnel 8, and a manager 9 are located in a communication network 10 for wireless communication between components of the communication network 10, Are related to each other.

  In the exemplary embodiment, the communication multi-network is located in and near the store. In the exemplary embodiment, a two-dimensional X and Y grid or a three-dimensional X, Y, and Z grid overlap the store map. In these embodiments, all stationary devices on the communication network are assigned and know their position coordinates on the grid.

  FIG. 5 represents an exemplary embodiment of a communication multi-network, which comprises one or more mesh communication networks 14 and one or more star communication networks 16. For maximum clarity, FIG. 5 represents a plurality of multi-network routers 11 that operate in both one or more mesh communication networks and one or more star communication networks. . As such, each multi-network router preferably includes components for data transmission via one or more mesh communication networks and one or more star communication networks. In an exemplary embodiment, the shopper, store associate, and manager can communicate with one or more mesh communication networks and one or more star communication of the communication multi-network 10 by the multi-network communication line 6 and the multi-network router. Each is connected to a network 16.

  In the exemplary embodiment, each multi-network router is located at a location outside the range where shoppers shop within the store. An exemplary deployment area for each multi-network router is at or near the store ceiling. Although not required, each multi-network router 11 includes a first radio that functions as an information router 12 (shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 9) of one or more mesh-type communication networks 14 and one or more. It accommodates at least three radios, such as at least two more radios functioning as data communication radios 20 (shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8 and 9) preferable.

  FIG. 5 shows a state in which the system communication line 19 connects each multi-network router 11 to one or more data collection devices 23. The system communication line 19 may be either wireless or wired. The system communication lines 19 are preferably wired, and in FIG. 5, the state that they are wired is indicated by a solid line. An Ethernet cable is an exemplary wired connection device between each multi-network router 11 and one or more data collection devices 23. The exemplary system communication lines used herein are of a type suitable for use within the Ethernet physical layer operating within the IEEE 802.3 communication specification. An exemplary Ethernet cable is RJ45, CAT-x copper type “twisted pair”. Such cables are designed to help voice and data be digitally transmitted at high quality and high speed over copper wires.

  FIG. 5 also shows the multi-network communication line 6 corresponding to the transmission area between the multi-network routers 11 in the mesh communication network 14. Although depicted as straight lines for purposes of illustration, in practice, the multi-network communication line is not necessarily a straight line, more precisely, a circular transmission area centered around each multi-network router. . Multi-network communication lines are also shown between multi-network routers and shoppers, store personnel, and managers. Although not shown, the multi-network communication line further (1) connects the manager with other managers, store personnel, and shoppers, and (2) connects the store personnel with managers, store personnel, and shoppers. (3) Connect the shopper with store personnel and managers, but preferably do not connect the shopper 7 with other shoppers 7 and (4) connect the vendor with the store personnel and manager. As the shopper shop and / or travels within the store, the actual real-time shopper data is sent from the wireless end device and / or the intelligent shopping cart used by the shopper via the multi-network communication line 6 of each multi-network router. Sent and received.

  Preferably, each multi-network router 11 operates with one or more mesh communication networks 14 and one or more star communication networks 16. The multi-network router includes at least three microcontroller units (MCUs). One MCU is used in one or more mesh communication networks, and at least two are used in one or more star communication networks. Each MCU is preferably a chip-mounted MCU and includes a controller, one or more registers, a fixed amount of ROM, a fixed amount of RAM, and an arithmetic logic unit (ALU).

  The Texas Instruments CC2431 MCU can successfully transmit data at a predetermined data transfer rate via the mesh communication network 14 and one or more star communication networks 16, so that one or more mesh communication FIG. 2 is an exemplary MCU as one of the radios used in network 14 and as one of at least two radios used in one or more star communication networks 16. The CC2431 MCU can also provide a position detection function within the communication multi-network 10 of this specification. Alternatively, Texas Instruments CC2430 MCU is one of two radios used as one of the radios for one or more mesh communication networks 14 and in one or more star communication networks 16. Is an exemplary MCU. A third wireless device among at least three wireless devices of the multi-network router 11 is a wireless device stronger than the CC243x series of Texas Instruments.

  In practice, the data transfer rate within the mesh communication network 14 is preferably configured to be at least 125 kilobytes (KB / second) per second. The data transfer rate within the one or more star communication networks 16 is preferably configured to be at least 250 KB / second. The interface between the shopper and the communication multi-network 10 is wireless and the shopper accesses via a blind node.

  FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary mesh communication network 14 for use with the invention herein. In this description, an information router 12 is provided that performs wireless communication with one or more components of a mesh communication network via a mesh communication line 17. The one or more mesh communication network components include a blind node, a weight measuring device, and one or more mesh network organizers 13.

  The mesh communication line 17 may be wired or wireless. Preferably, the mesh communication line is not an actual wiring, but other configurations such as the information router 12 constituting one or more communication networks 14, one or more wireless terminators 40 and the mesh network organizer 13. It is intended to depict the direction and presence of a wireless communication line between elements. The mesh network organizer is connected to one or more data collection devices 23 by a system communication line 19 (shown in FIGS. 5, 7A, 7B, 8, and 9). One or more mesh communication networks offer a number of advantages, such as low power consumption, low operating costs, efficient communication within a defined space, and low maintenance costs.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the information router 12 can communicate with at least one of the other information routers 12 in the one or more mesh communication networks 14. The information router 12 is preferably capable of communicating with all other mesh network components, such as at least one blind node 50.

  In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more mesh communication networks 14 are local area networks (LANs) that use one of two connection arrangements. One arrangement is a full mesh topology, while another is a partial mesh topology. In a complete mesh topology, all of the information routers 12 are wirelessly connected to each other and can send and receive information to and from all other information routers within one or more mesh communication networks. In a partial mesh topology, each information router is wirelessly connected to some (but not all) information routers available within one or more mesh communication networks.

  Appropriate data transfer via one or more mesh communication networks is based on location data and non-location such as voice data and digital messages between store personnel and managers via one or more mesh communication networks. Information data. However, in the preferred embodiment, one or more mesh communication networks are limited to small packet data including X and Y position coordinates, such as position data. Preferably, the location tracking function of the communication multi-network 10 is performed through a mesh communication network, whereas larger packet data, such as non-location information data, is communicated by one or more star communication networks. . The information routers 12 do not necessarily communicate with each other, but provide location data to each blind node 50. Blind node 50 includes, but is not limited to, a wireless end device and an intelligent shopping cart.

  In the exemplary embodiment herein, the position tracking device associated with the blind node 50 calculates its X and Y position coordinates by triangulation software or other position tracking software installed on the blind node. The information router knows its own X and Y position coordinates. In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more data collection devices 23 inform the information router of their respective X and Y position coordinates. The information router is connected to the mesh network organizer 13 by a communication line 19 (shown in FIG. 6) that leads to one or more data collection devices 23 (FIGS. 1 and 2B).

  An exemplary embodiment of a mesh communication network 14 as used herein is a ZigBee network 15. As shown in FIG. 6A, a ZigBee network is formed in part by a meshed information router 12, whereby each information router 12 is a ZigBee network, i.e. one in a fully meshed or partially meshed topology. Send / receive to / from two or more information routers.

  There are several advantages to using the ZigBee network 15 as the exemplary one or more mesh communication networks 14 herein. A ZigBee network in a mesh type communication network has a low power consumption and a low mounting cost, and a high usage density of components (several if not hundreds of information routers 12 per mesh type communication network). And / or FMOT device 50), and its simple communication protocol. The ZigBee network is suitable for use in wireless communication networks that require low data rates and low power consumption.

  The simplest ZigBee network configuration herein includes one or more information routers 12, at least one mesh network organizer 13, and one or more blind nodes 50. A mesh network organizer is a device that delivers data via one or more information routers in a ZigBee network. The mesh network organizer is connected to one or more data collection devices 23 by a system communication line 19. The ZigBee network 15 may be a non-beacon type or a beacon type.

  The ZigBee network 15 may be a non-beacon type or a beacon type. In a non-beacon-enabled network (ie, a network with a beacon order of 15), the information router 12 has a data receiver that is preferably continuously active. A non-beacon compatible type ZigBee network where some devices always receive and other devices transmit only when an external stimulus from a ZigBee network component such as a blind node is detected Is acceptable.

  A known example of an element in a heterogeneous connection network is a lamp having a wireless light switch. The lamp's ZIGBEE node is always receiving since it was connected to the lamp's power supply, whereas the battery-operated light switch is in the "sleeping" or "inactive" state until the light switch is turned on It is. The light switch then activates, sends a command to the lamp, receives approval and returns to the inactive state. In a beacon-compatible network, an information router in the ZigBee network transmits a periodic beacon and confirms its existence with other network nodes such as blind nodes. In an exemplary beacon enabled ZigBee network, blind nodes and information routers reduce power between beacons, thereby reducing duty cycle and extending battery life.

  In a beacon-incompatible network, at least some of the information routers in the communication multi-network are always active, so even if there are other inactive information routers, power consumption may increase. In the exemplary embodiment, substantially all of the information routers in the communication multi-network are always active. In order to sustain power, beacon-type ZigBee networks are typical for grocery stores.

  FIG. 6B is an exemplary schematic diagram of the function of one or more mesh communication networks 14 used in the present invention herein. This FIG. 6B shows that one or more mesh communication networks 14 eventually have one or more data collection devices that collect data between components of one or more mesh communication networks such as the information router 12 and the blind node 50. 23 indicates that the data is transferred.

  FIG. 7A exemplarily represents one or more star communication networks 16. In this specification, the data communication radio 20 communicates directly with each other regardless of whether it is accommodated in its own device or in the multi-network router 11 together with the information router 12 (shown in FIG. 1). Instead, it communicates directly with one or more data collection devices 23 via the system communication line 19.

  One or more star communication networks 16 are particularly useful and important for the communication multi-network 10. The one or more star communication networks are exemplary communication multi-network communication networks that transmit data streams that require higher data transfer rates for speed and efficiency. Preferably, the one or more star communication networks are optimal for a transmission rate of at least 250 KB / sec instead of or in addition to the transfer rate of about 125 KB / sec provided by the one or more mesh communication networks. Used to communicate non-location data, such as data, images, videos, financial transaction data, and other types of data. However, it is possible to transmit non-location information data that requires a high data transfer rate provided by one or more star communication networks via one or more mesh communication networks 14.

  The exemplary one or more star communication networks herein operate within the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802 communication protocol. IEEE 802 represents a family of IEEE standards dealing with local area networks and metropolitan area networks. More specifically, the IEEE 802 standard is limited to networks that carry variable size data packets. In contrast, in cell-based networks, data is transmitted in short, fixed-size units called cells, such as used in mobile phones. Illustratively, as described above, one or more star communication networks 16 are connected to BLUETOOTH (IEEE 802.15.1 and 802.15.2), WIMEDIA (IEEE 802.15.3), WI- Within a range of communication protocols including, but not limited to, other wireless protocols such as FI (IEEE 802.11b), Wi-Fi5 (IEEE 802.11la / HL2), and the exemplary protocol 802.15.4 It is recognized that it can work.

  FIG. 7B exemplarily shows the communication multi-network 10. This figure clearly shows how the information router 12 of one or more mesh communication networks 14 provides signals to the FMOT device 50. In FIG. 7B, the information router provides the FMOT device 50 with the X and Y position coordinates of the information router. The FMOT device 50 performs the necessary calculations to provide its own position in the X and Y position coordinates, or one or more star communication networks 16 to one or more store servers 29, such as a position tracking server. The signal is transmitted via and the calculation is performed at that level of the communication multi-network 10. In either situation, the location of each FMOT device 50 is determined by the data exchanged between the blind nodes and the information routers of one or more mesh communication networks. Or a location tracking server.

  In the exemplary embodiment, substantially all substantial communication between FMOT devices 50, such as wireless termination devices and intelligent shopping carts, is performed by data communication radio 20, switch 25, gateway server 27, and appropriate store server 29. Is done. The store server 29 is often a location tracking server.

  FIG. 8 exemplarily shows the communication multi-network 10. This figure clearly shows how the information router 12 of one or more mesh communication networks 14 provides signals to the FMOT device 50, including wireless termination devices and intelligent shopping carts, in the exemplary embodiment described above. As shown, FMOT device 50 is associated with one or more position trackers.

  In FIG. 8, the information router provides the blind node with the X and Y position coordinates of the information router. A blind node performs the calculations necessary to provide its position in X and Y position coordinates, or signals to one or more store servers, such as a position tracking server, via one or more star communication networks 16 Send. As described above, both the one or more data collection devices and the location tracking server can perform ray tracing and location tracking calculations. In either situation, the position of each blind node is known to one or more store servers by data exchanged between the FMOT device 50 and the information router 12 of the one or more mesh communication networks 14. The In the exemplary embodiment, the location tracking server performs the location tracking calculation rather than causing the blind node to perform the previously described calculation task.

  The location tracking calculation uses information provided by the blind node to the location tracking server (X and Y location coordinates of the nearest information router). The nearest information router (relative to the blind node) receives the X and Y position coordinates of the blind node from the mesh network organizer 13. The mesh network organizer 13 receives X and Y position coordinates from the position tracking server. In any case, the position of the blind node on the map of the store (shown in FIG. 5) is grasped by the blind node and the position tracking server via one or more mesh communication networks 14 of the communication multi-network 10.

  FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative exemplary embodiment and is an exemplary top schematic view of a store having a multi-star communication network 16. FIG. 9 also shows one or more mesh communication networks combined with a multi-star communication network. Although FIG. 9 illustrates a multi-star communication network and one or more mesh communication networks, the communication multi-network 10 may include only a multi-star communication network that does not have one or more mesh communication networks. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that.

  As in FIG. 5, FIG. 9 also shows a state in which the mesh communication line 17 connects each information router 12 to the mesh network organizer 13 in one or more mesh communication networks 14. In addition, the mesh communication line exists between information routers in the mesh communication network. Although the communication line is drawn as a straight line for illustration, it is not necessarily a straight line in practice. Rather, each information router operable within one or more mesh communication networks creates a limited communication area in which internal communication between information routers takes place.

  The system communication line 19 is shown in a state where the data communication radio 20 and one or more data collection devices 23 are connected. The system communication line is shown in a state in which the mesh network organizer 13 and one or more data collection devices 23 are connected. In the case of a communication multi-network 10 including two or more star communication networks 16, each data communication radio displayed for each of the one or more star communication networks is a component of the communication multi-network by a system communication line. Are connected to one or more data collection devices 23 that operate as a master network coordinator for almost all of the above.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for determining the location of FMOT device 50 in a communication network in real time. In practice, the FMOT device 50 transmits a signal received by the information router 12 that is closest in the communication network. The communication network is preferably a ZigBee mesh communication network 15 of the communication multi-network 10. The signal transmitted to the FMOT device 50 attempts to establish its position in the store. In response to the transmitted signal, each information router 12 returns a signal indicating its own position to the FMOT device 50. Each received signal from the information router has an incident signal strength that the blind node can measure.

  The signal strength of each received signal is then measured and ascertained by FMOT device 50, and the blind node calculates its position relative to the information router, preferably using ray tracing calculations with that signal strength as input. Thereby calculating its position according to the X and Y coordinate system. When the computation is complete, the blind node sends a set of X and Y position coordinates to one or more data collection devices via the network. The data collection device can store and track various positions of blind nodes distributed throughout the store.

  Ideally, one or more data collection devices or location tracking servers (not shown) track all FMOT devices 50 in the store, thereby regulating the operation of one or more methods herein. And control. Also ideally, the location tracking subsystem operates continuously or substantially continuously to track the location of each FMOT device 50 during operation within the store with the communication network herein. . Thus, the process described above in FIG. 10 calculates the position of any blind node in the store so that one or more data collection devices 23 (FIGS. 5 and 9) can grasp and store over time. In addition, it is preferably performed substantially continuously. By storing the location of blind nodes at all or nearly all locations in the store in this manner, shopper behavior pattern data is built that includes important history regarding the estimated location of the blind nodes in the store.

  When the blind node position detection engine is housed in the FMOT device 50 that the shopper uses to scan items in the store for purchase, the actual real-time shopper data is one or more data collection devices. Collected by. Collecting such real-time shopper data that can be stored for later analysis or broadcast to one or more interested parties (such as consumer goods companies) is a top priority. . To date, companies that sell products in retail stores have rarely been able to track actual shopper behavior, such as product selection at the time of such selection, using electronic simulations and inaccurate sales data to make purchases. We anticipated the impact on customer behavior and spending by shoppers in retail stores.

  With the advent of the disclosed technology, when merchandisers ask retailers to place their product end caps 22 at the end of the aisle for a predetermined period of time, the retail store will: (1) shoppers around the end caps (2) the length of time that the shopper is adjacent to the end cap 22 can be determined, and (3) the shopper is in the end cap 22 (FIGS. 1A-1D). You can identify any and all items that you have scanned, placed in your shopping cart, and / or paid and then taken home. As a result, the invention of the present specification allows such insights into actual real-time shopper behavior before or at the time of product selection, as described above. In the first moment of truth, the store grasps such behavior. Monitoring and listing such actual shopper behavior in real time is a dramatic change in the nature of such shopper evaluation and analysis. This change is enhanced by one or more methods for grasping the ability of the invention herein, i.e., the estimated location of the shopper within the store.

  11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D are flowcharts of an exemplary position tracking subsystem of the disclosed invention. In FIG. 11A, the FMOT device 50 inquires of all the information routers 12 within the transmission range about their positions. Each information router 12 within the range transmits its position coordinates to the FMOT device 50. At least two information routers 12 transmit their position information to the FMOT device 50. The location information belonging to the information router 12 is displayed in an overlapping manner on the store map with X and Y coordinates, ie longitude and latitude coordinates, or other location data known to those skilled in the art.

  FIG. 11A represents an exemplary non-beacon communication multi-network shown in steps 410-425, where it is the blind node that initiates contact with the information router 12. FIG. In contrast, FIG. 11B represents the exemplary beacon mesh communication network shown in steps 460 to 470, where it is the information router 12 that periodically and rhythmically sends signals to the listening device. . The information router 12 in this case is a blind node 12. The location tracking subsystems of FIGS. 11A and 11B are the same except for this difference.

  In FIGS. 11A and 11B, the ray tracing calculations necessary to determine real-time position information associated with the FMOT device 50 are performed by the FMOT device 50. FMOT device 50 then transmits the location information associated with the blind node to the data communication radio, which then provides the location information to one or more data collection devices 23.

  FIG. 11C represents one or more exemplary methods for determining the location of FMOT device 50 within communication multi-network 10. 10, FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11B, FMOT device 50 performs a ray tracing calculation to calculate its own X and Y coordinates in the store. 11C and 11D, the blind nodes still measure the strength of the signals received from the available information routers, but once the blind node measures the strength of the signals received from the information router 12, those signals measured The strength is transmitted to the data communication radio 20 via the communication network. Subsequently, the data communication radio 20 transmits the measured signal strength to one or more data collection devices 23. The data collection device then performs the ray tracing calculation using the measured signal strength as input information to the ray tracing calculation. The output information for such a calculation is the position, which is displayed with a set of X and Y position coordinates of the blind node whose signal strength was measured.

  FIG. 11C shows an exemplary non-beacon communication multi-network shown in steps 505 to 520. Here, it is the blind node that initiates contact with the information router 12. In contrast, FIG. 11D shows an exemplary beacon mesh communication network shown in steps 565-575. Here, it is the information router that periodically and rhythmically sends signals to all devices that may be listening. The location tracking subsystems of FIGS. 11C and 11D are the same except for this difference.

  Other exemplary embodiments of the location tracking subsystem not shown include the above exemplary subsystems of FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D. Here, each information router 12 and each data communication radio 20 is replaced with the multi-network router 11 shown in the exemplary communication multi-network of FIG.

  FIG. 12 shows a simplified diagram of a position tracking subsystem for position detection. Each information router 12 is a static (ie, stationary) node that is placed at a known location in the store 5 and remains stationary. For simplicity, each information router 12 knows its location and can communicate its location to other nodes or other components in the schematic in response to a request by sending a signal.

  The information router 12 can operate with various types of MCUs. For example, a suitable MCU from Texas Instruments is model number CC2430, CC2431, and / or CC2420.

  In an exemplary embodiment, when the blind node 50 herein receives a data packet containing X and Y coordinates from each information router 12 in range, the FMOT device 50 automatically adds an RSSI value to the received packet. . The RSSI values are preferably averaged over eight first symbol periods (128 μsec). In the exemplary embodiment, the RSSI value is displayed as a 1-byte value as a signed two's complement value. When a packet is read from the CC2431 FIFO, the penultimate byte contains the RSSI value measured after receiving 8 symbols of the actual packet. Even when the RSSI value is captured at the same time as the data packet is received, the RSSI value reflects the received signal strength at that time, and in some cases also reflects the signal power of the received data.

  The blind node 50 herein preferably includes a register referred to as RSSI. This register holds the same value as above, but the register value should not be used for further calculations because it is not locked when a packet is received. Only the locked RSSI value attached to the received data can be interpreted as the RSSI value measured just when the data was received.

  Received signal strength is a function of the transmitted power and the distance between the sender and the receiver. In an exemplary embodiment of the system, the received signal strength decreases with increasing distance, as the following equation shows.

  (Log) 10 RSSI = −nd + A

  In the equation, n is a signal propagation constant and is also called a propagation index. d is the distance from the sender, and A is the received signal strength at a distance of 1 meter.

  If too few information routers 12 are used, the influence from each information router becomes large, and if one RSSI value is wrong, the calculation position may change greatly. If the RSSI value is incorrect in this situation, an RSSI value that does not match the theoretical value is generated due to multiple paths or when the signal is blocked by an obstacle such as a wall. Therefore, in an environment such as a store, it is advantageous that there are many information routers.

  This description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The scope of the invention that can be patented is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other embodiments have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or include equivalent structural elements that have insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims. It is assumed to be within range.

Claims (17)

A system for obtaining actual real-time shopper behavior data close to a shopper's decision-making moment in a store filled with one or more purchaseable items,
a. A communication network located near the store;
b. At least one data collection device operatively communicating with the communication network;
c. A device for capturing a first real moment communicatively coupled to the communication network within the store, whereby a device for capturing each first real moment is the one or more purchases. A system that collects the actual real-time shopper behavior data close to the decision-making moment by the shopper for possible items.   The system captures the first true moment to influence the shopper's decision before, during or after the shopper's decision moment on one or more purchaseable items The system of claim 1, wherein the system transmits one or more influence messages to the device.   The system of claim 2, wherein the shopper's response or no response to the one or more influence messages is recorded and stored as part of the real-time shopper behavior data.   4. The system of claim 3, wherein the influence message delivered to the shopper by the system is delivered to the shopper by a communication device that does not include a device that captures the first real moment.   The actual real-time shopper behavior data is used to determine the identification information of the one or more purchaseable items considered for purchase and whether or not the shopper selects the one or more purchaseable items. The system of claim 1, comprising a length of time spent and identification information for the estimated location of the shopper at the store.   The system of claim 5, wherein the actual real-time shopper behavior data includes the identification information of the one or more purchaseable items selected for purchase by the shopper.   The system of claim 6, wherein the actual real-time shopper behavior data includes the identification information of the one or more purchaseable items that have not been selected for purchase by the shopper.   6. The system of claim 5, wherein each actual real-time shopper behavior data is transmitted to the one or more data collection devices, and the data collection devices are communicatively coupled to the communication network.   9. The system of claim 8, wherein the data collection device acquires and organizes the actual real-time shopper data.   Each said shopper has an estimated location in the store, whereby the estimated location of each of the shopper is captured at the first true moment where each said shopper's proximity is held 9. The system of claim 8, comprising:   The system of claim 10, wherein the device for capturing each first real moment comprises a location tracking device, the location tracking device operating to generate location tracking data.   The system of claim 11, wherein the data collection device stores historical progress data, the historical progress data including substantially all of the location tracking data.   The location tracking data is acquired by a device that captures the true moment from around the time when the location tracking device is associated with the communication network until around the time when the association between the location tracking device and the communication network is released. The system of claim 12, collected.   The one or more purchaseable items comprise readable media on their surface for scanning by a device that captures the first real moment, the readable media comprising each of the one or more purchaseable items. The system of claim 1 including product identification information.   The system of claim 1, wherein the communication network is a communication multi-network.   The system of claim 15, wherein the communication multi-network includes at least one mesh communication network and at least one star communication network.   The system of claim 15, wherein the communication multi-network includes a plurality of star communication networks.

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