Dynamic termination zone detection system

Examples provide a tag manager component that identifies a plurality of stationary RFID tags located within a three-dimensional space outside an item display area based on an analysis of RFID tag data associated with the plurality of RFID tag readers. A zone detection component analyzes item data associated with a plurality of items corresponding to the plurality of stationary RFID tags and location data associated with the three-dimensional space using a set of per-item criteria. The set of per-item criteria includes a per-item minimum threshold number of items per unit of three-dimensional space and/or a minimum threshold stationary time-period. A verification component analyzes sensor data and/or transaction data to verify whether the three-dimensional space is a termination zone. If the three-dimensional space is a termination zone, an inventory manager component removes the plurality of items from perpetual inventory.

BACKGROUND

It is typically beneficial in retail environments to maintain accurate inventory records regarding how many items are currently available in on-hand inventory within the store to inform ordering decisions, as well as to prevent over-stocking items, understocking items, and/or item outs (out-of-stock items). However, system inventory, also referred to as perpetual inventory (PI), frequently does not accurately reflect actual numbers of items physically present in the store. This can occur due to invoicing errors, inaccurate item scanning, shrinkage, and so forth.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags can be utilized to track items for inventory purposes. An RFID can be attached to one or more physical items in a store. One or more RFID tag readers located within the store gathers the RFID tag data from the RFID tags to determine the location of the RFID tags and the identification of the items associated with each tag. However, RFID tags continue to output RFID tag data even after the tags are removed from their corresponding items. If these detached tags remain within range of one or more RFID tag readers, the PI can continue to show the items present in inventory even though the item is detached from the corresponding RFID tag and removed from the store due to the continued presence of the detached RFID tags. This results in an inaccurate and overstated PI for the corresponding items, which could result in understocking of items, under-ordering or delayed ordering of restock items, as well as occurrence of item outs.

SUMMARY

Some examples provide a system for dynamic termination zone detection for inventory management. The system includes a memory; at least one processor communicatively coupled to the memory; and a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag readers within an item selection area. A tag manager component identifies a plurality of stationary RFID tags located within a three-dimensional space outside an item display area. The stationary RFID tags are identified based on an analysis of RFID tag data associated with the plurality of RFID tag readers. A zone detection component analyzes item data associated with a plurality of items corresponding to the plurality of stationary RFID tags and location data associated with the three-dimensional space. The zone detection component analyzes the item data and location data using a set of per-item criteria. The zone detection component determines whether the three-dimensional space qualifies as a termination zone based on the analysis result. The set of per-item criteria includes a per-item minimum threshold number of items per unit of three-dimensional space and a minimum threshold stationary time-period. An inventory manager component removes the plurality of items from perpetual inventory associated with the item selection area on condition the three-dimensional space qualifies as the termination zone.

Other examples provide a computer-implemented method for dynamic termination zone detection. A tag manager component analyzes RFID tag data obtained from a plurality of RFID tags associated with a plurality of items within an item selection area. The tag management component identifies a set of RFID tags within the plurality of stationary RFID tags remaining within a predetermined location outside a designated item display area for a minimum threshold stationary time-period. A zone detection component analyzes item data associated with a set of items corresponding to the set of stationary RFID tags with a set of dimensions defining a three-dimensional space associated with the predetermined location. The item data includes dimensions of each item in the set of items. The zone detection component determines whether the three-dimensional space associated with the predetermined location is sufficient to contain the set of items. The zone detection component designates the predetermined location as a termination zone if the number of items in the set of stationary RFID tags exceeds a minimum threshold number of items for the three-dimensional space and the three-dimensional space is insufficient to contain the set of items.

Still other examples provide a system for dynamic termination zone detection. The system includes a memory; at least one processor communicatively coupled to the memory; and a plurality of sensor devices within an item selection area. The plurality of sensor devices includes a plurality of RFID tag readers generating RFID tag data associated with a plurality of stationary RFID tags within an item display area. A zone detection component analyzes historical termination zone data associated with the item selection area, item data associated with a plurality of items assigned to the plurality of stationary RFID tags, and location data associated with the termination zone using a set of per-item criteria. The zone detection component identifies a termination zone based on results of the analysis. The termination zone includes a three-dimensional space located outside an item display area and a plurality of stationary RFID tags. The set of per-item criteria includes a threshold minimum stationary time-period. The historical termination zone data includes item data and location data associated with at least one prior termination zone. An inventory manager component removes the plurality of items from current inventory in real-time.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the figures, examples of the disclosure enable dynamic identification of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag termination zones for perpetual inventory (PI) update in real-time. In some examples, a zone manager component analyzes RFID tag data from a plurality of RFID tags in an item selection area to identify a set of stationary RFID tags located within a three-dimensional space outside an item display area. This enables identification of aggregations of RFID tags in areas of a store which are not utilized as items display areas, such as side-counters, refrigerated displays, counters, gondola shelves, or other display areas. In other words, the system identifies groupings of RFID tags in non-display areas in real-time.

In other examples, the zone manager component analyzes RFID tag data associated with a set of stationary RFID tags, item data associated with a plurality of items assigned to the set of stationary RFID tags in the item selection area, and location data associated with the three-dimensional space associated with the set of stationary RFID tags to determine whether the items assigned to the set of stationary RFID tags could fit within the three-dimensional space. If not, the system identifies the three-dimensional space as a termination zone and the set of stationary RFID tags as detached tags. The zone manager component removes the set of items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone from PI. This enables the system to update PI based on termination zones without human intervention.

In still other examples, the zone manager component eliminates items from PI associated with RFID tags in a termination zone dynamically in real-time. This enables more accurate inventory records and reduced error rate in inventory updates. This reduces or eliminates overstated PI without manual scanning of items or other human intervention.

Referring again toFIG. 1, an exemplary block diagram illustrates a system100for dynamic termination zone detection. In the example ofFIG. 1, the computing device102represents any device executing computer-executable instructions104(e.g., as application programs, operating system functionality, or both) to implement the operations and functionality associated with the computing device102. The computing device102can include a mobile computing device or any other portable device. In some examples, the mobile computing device includes a mobile telephone, laptop, tablet, computing pad, netbook, gaming device, and/or portable media player. The computing device102can also include less-portable devices such as servers, desktop personal computers, kiosks, or tabletop devices. Additionally, the computing device102can represent a group of processing units or other computing devices.

In some examples, the computing device102has at least one processor106and a memory108. The computing device102can also optionally include a user interface component110.

The processor106includes any quantity of processing units and is programmed to execute the computer-executable instructions104. The computer-executable instructions104can be performed by the processor106or by multiple processors within the computing device102or performed by a processor external to the computing device102. In some examples, the processor106is programmed to execute instructions such as those illustrated in the figures (e.g.,FIG. 11,FIG. 12andFIG. 13).

The computing device102further has one or more computer readable media such as the memory108. The memory108includes any quantity of media associated with or accessible by the computing device102. The memory108can be internal to the computing device102(as shown inFIG. 1), external to the computing device (not shown), or both (not shown). In some examples, the memory108includes read-only memory and/or memory wired into an analog computing device.

The memory108stores data, such as one or more applications. The applications, when executed by the processor106, operate to perform functionality on the computing device102. The applications can communicate with counterpart applications or services such as web services accessible via a network112. For example, the applications can represent downloaded client-side applications that correspond to server-side services executing in a cloud.

In other examples, the user interface component110includes a graphics card for displaying data to the user and receiving data from the user. The user interface component110can also include computer-executable instructions (e.g., a driver) for operating the graphics card. Further, the user interface component110can include a display (e.g., a touch screen display or natural user interface) and/or computer-executable instructions (e.g., a driver) for operating the display. The user interface component110can also include one or more of the following to provide data to the user or receive data from the user: speakers, a sound card, a camera, a microphone, a vibration motor, one or more accelerometers, a BLUETOOTH® brand communication module, global positioning system (GPS) hardware, and a photoreceptive light sensor. In a non-limiting example, the user inputs commands or manipulates data by moving the computing device102in a particular way.

The network112is implemented by one or more physical network components, such as, but without limitation, routers, switches, network interface cards (NICs), and other network devices. The network112can be any type of network for enabling communications with remote computing devices, such as, but not limited to, a local area network (LAN), a subnet, a wide area network (WAN), a wireless (Wi-Fi) network, or any other type of network. In this example, the network112is a WAN, such as the Internet. However, in other examples, the network112is a local or private LAN.

In some examples, the system100optionally includes a communications interface component114. The communications interface component114includes a network interface card and/or computer-executable instructions (e.g., a driver) for operating the network interface card. Communication between the computing device102and other devices, such as but not limited to, a plurality of sensor devices502, can occur using any protocol or mechanism over any wired or wireless connection. In some examples, the communications interface component114is operable with short range communication technologies such as by using near-field communication (NFC) tags.

The plurality of sensor devices502includes any type of sensor device, such as, but not limited to, RFID tag readers118for generating RFID tag data122associated with a plurality of RFID tags120. The plurality of RFID tags120can include passive RFID tags and/or active RFID tags. Each RFID tag identifies a specific item in inventory.

The system100can optionally include a data storage device124for storing data, such as, but not limited to item data126, location data128and/or sensor data130. The item data126is data associated with one or more items assigned to at least one RFID tag in the plurality of RFID tags. The item data126can include an identification of an item, an assigned display area or location for the item, dimensions of the item and/or dimensions of the item packaging, as well as any other data associated with one or more items.

The location data128is data associated with a location of the plurality of RFID tags120. In some examples, the location of one or more RFID tags is determined using RFID tag data from a plurality of RFID tag readers in an array of RFID tag readers throughout the item selection area. The RFID tag readers can include RFID tag readers mounted to the ceiling of the store, walls, shelves, or anywhere else in the item selection area. The system can calculate the coordinates for each RFID tag by triangulating the RFID tag data received from three or more RFID tag readers.

The location data128can include an aisle identifier, a shelf identifier, coordinates of a three-dimensional space, dimensions of the three-dimensional space, or any other data associated with a location including a set of RFID tags.

The sensor data130is data generated by the plurality of sensor devices502. The sensor data130can include image data generated by image capture devise, pressure sensor data generated by pressure sensors, RFID tag data122generated by the one or more RFID tag readers118, or any other type of sensor data.

The data storage device124can include one or more different types of data storage devices, such as, for example, one or more rotating disks drives, one or more solid state drives (SSDs), and/or any other type of data storage device. The data storage device124in some non-limiting examples includes a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) array. In other examples, the data storage device124includes a database, such as the database1000shown inFIG. 10below.

The data storage device124in this example is included within the computing device102or associated with the computing device102. In other examples, the data storage device124is a remote data storage accessed by the computing device via the network112, such as a remote data storage device, a data storage in a remote data center, or a cloud storage.

The memory108in some examples stores one or more computer-executable components. Exemplary components include a zone manager component132. The zone manager component132, when executed by the processor106of the computing device102, identifies the plurality of RFID tags120located within a three-dimensional space outside an item display area. The identified plurality of RFID tags120are stationary for a minimum threshold time-period. The zone manager component132in some examples identifies the plurality of stationary RFID tags based on an analysis of the RFID tag data122generated by the RFID tag readers118.

In other examples, the zone manager component132analyzes the item data126associated with the plurality of items corresponding to the plurality of stationary RFID tags and the location data128associated with the three-dimensional space containing the plurality of RFID tags120using a set of per-item criteria134to determine whether the three-dimensional space is an RFID tag termination zone.

The zone manager component132in still other examples automatically updates the PI by removing one or more items corresponding to RFID tags within the termination zone from inventory. In other words, the system100ignores RFID tags in the termination zone and assumes items assigned to those termination zone RFID tags are no longer physically present within on-hand inventory.

FIG. 2is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a zone manager component132. The zone manager component132can include a tag manager component202, which identifies a plurality of stationary RFID tags204located within a three-dimensional space206outside an item display area based on an analysis of RFID tag data122. The RFID tag data is sensor data generated by a one or more RFID tag readers.

The plurality of stationary RFID tags204includes RFID tags which have remained stationary within a fixed three-dimensional space or other predetermined location outside a designated item display area for a threshold minimum stationary time-period. For example, if the minimum threshold stationary time-period is twenty minutes, RFID tags which have remained in a space which is not located in an item display area for at least twenty minutes or longer without being moved are identified as the plurality of stationary RFID tags204.

A zone detection component210determines whether the plurality of stationary RFID tags204are located within a termination zone. In some examples, the zone detection component210analyzes historical termination zone data212associated with an item selection area, item data214associated with a plurality of items220assigned to the plurality of stationary RFID tags, and location data128associated with the three-dimensional space206using a set of per-item criteria218.

The three-dimensional space206is an area having dimensions, such as, length, height, and width. The three-dimensional space206is located outside an item display area. The item data126is data associated with one or more items in the plurality of items220, such as, but not limited to, the item data126inFIG. 1. The item data126can include an identification of an item, assigned location or display area for the item, item size, item dimensions, package dimensions, or other item data.

The set of per-item criteria218includes criteria for determining whether the three-dimensional space206is an RFID tag termination zone, such as, but not limited to, the per-item criteria134inFIG. 1. An RFID tag termination zone is an area in which detached RFID tags accumulate. A detached RFID tag is a tag no longer associated with or attached to an item assigned to the RFID tag. In some examples, the set of per-item criteria218includes a minimum threshold stationary time-period. The minimum threshold stationary time-period specifies a minimum amount of time one or more RFID tags remain stationary within the three-dimensional space206before the three-dimensional space is categorized as a termination zone.

The historical termination zone data212includes data associated with one or more previous termination zones. The historical termination zone data212can include a previous location of previous termination zone(s), identification of items associated with RFID tags within the previous termination zone(s), size or dimensions of previous termination zone(s), or any other data associated with the previous termination zone(s). The previous termination zone(s) can be compared with the current three-dimensional space206and the plurality of items220associated with the plurality of stationary RFID tags204to determine whether the three-dimensional space is another termination zone.

In another example, historical termination zone data is used to compare locations of previous termination zones with the current location of the RFID tags. Even if the current location is not located at the exact same spot/area as the previous termination zones, the system can determine that the current location of the RFID tags is within a predetermined distance, zone or proximity to one or more previous termination zones. This indicates that even though the termination zone is in a different location, it is still within a reasonable distance from the previous termination zone to enable an inference that the current location is also a termination zone. For example, a trash can may never be located in exactly the same spot, as users sometimes deliberately or accidently move the trash can from one day to the next day. The trash can may be moved slightly from its previous position or the trash can may be relocated a significant distance from its previous location. However, identifying or analyzing the previous locations of termination zones associated with the trash can enables the system to more accurately identify current and/or future locations of termination zones associated with the trash can.

An analysis component222analyzes the item data126, including the dimensions of the items in the plurality of items, to determine whether the plurality of items220fit within the three-dimensional space206. For example, if the three-dimensional space is one cubic foot and the dimensions of the plurality of items220is greater than one cubic foot, the plurality of items220could not physically fit within the available three-dimensional space206. In such case, the RFID tags within the three-dimensional space206can be detached from the items assigned to the RFID tags. In other words, the three-dimensional space206contains only the RFID tags. The items assigned to the RFID tags are removed from the RFID tags and absent from the three-dimensional space206.

If the zone detection component210determines the plurality of stationary RFID tags204within the three-dimensional space206are unattached to the plurality of items220assigned to those RFID tags, the zone detection component210designates the three-dimensional space206as an RFID tag termination zone. The zone detection component210can designate the three-dimensional space206as a termination zone if the dimensions of the three-dimensional space206are insufficient to contain or accommodate the plurality of items220based on the dimensions of each item in the plurality of items220and dimensions of the three-dimensional space206.

In other examples, the zone detection component210designates the three-dimensional space206as a termination zone if the number of items in the plurality of stationary RFID tags204exceeds a minimum threshold number of items for the dimensions or size of the three-dimensional space and/or if the zone detection component determines the three-dimensional space is too small to contain the set of items.

The inventory manager component224removes the plurality of items220within the termination zone from the item(s)228in perpetual inventory226. In other words, perpetual inventory226is updated by the inventory manager component224in real-time to remove items associated with detached RFID tags in the RFID tag termination zone. In this manner, the perpetual inventory226is automatically updated to reflect changes in on-hand inventory due to items sold or removed from a store while the detached RFID tags remain within the store. This perpetual inventory226update is performed dynamically based on sensor data obtained from RFID tags and other sensor devices without human intervention.

FIG. 3is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a system300for detecting and verifying termination zones. A computing device102executing the zone manager component132includes a verification component306. The verification component306analyzes sensor data, such as image data308, to verify that the RFID tags within the termination zone are not attached to items assigned to the RFID tags. In other words, the verification component306analyzes sensor data to verify the items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone are physically absent from the termination zone.

In some examples, the verification component306analyzes image data308generated by one or more image capture devices using item recognition analytics310. The image data308includes one or more images of at least a portion of the termination zone. The item recognition analytics include analytics for identifying one or more items based on a label, tag, universal product code (UPC), marker, text, packaging, size, or appearance of at least a portion of the item. In other examples, the image data includes infrared image data generated by one or more infrared sensors.

The image data308is generated by a set of one or more image capture devices associated with the three-dimensional space. The image capture device(s) can include one or more devices, such as a sensor device in the set of sensor devices116inFIG. 1and/or the plurality of sensor devices502inFIG. 5. The verification component306in some examples verifies the termination zone based on an analysis of the image data308using the item recognition analytics310indicating an absence of the items associated with the RFID tags within the three-dimensional space of the termination zone. In these examples, the zone manager component132updates the PI to add the one or more item(s) associated with RFID tags in the termination zone back into the PI if one or more of the items are identified as physically present within the termination zone based on the analysis of the image data308. If the analysis of the image data308confirms the absence of the items in the termination zone, the verification component verifies the termination zone and items associated with RFID tags in the termination zone remain deleted from PI.

A notification component312in some examples sends a notification314to a user device316associated with a user318. The user318in some examples is an associate or other personnel associated with a store or other item selection area. The notification314, in this example, instructs the user318to visually inspect the three-dimensional space associated with the termination zone for a presence of at least one item in the plurality of items associated with RFID tags within the termination zone. In other words, the notification instructs the user to make a visual inspection of the termination zone to determine whether the RFID tags in the termination zone are detached tags (associated items missing)/whether the items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone are physically present within the termination zone.

If a response320is received from the user device316, the verification component306analyzes the response320to verify whether the at least one item in the plurality of items associated with the stationary RFID tags is physically present within the termination zone. The response320can be referred to as a user response, user input, verification or user confirmation.

The response320is a notification from the user318indicating a result of the visual inspection. The response320can include a confirmation of the absence of the items in the termination zone or an indication of the presence of one or more of the items in the termination zone. In some examples, the verification component306verifies a three-dimensional space as a termination zone in response to receiving a confirmation of an absence of the at least one item within the three-dimensional space from the user device316.

The user device316can represent any device executing computer-executable instructions. The user device316can be implemented as a mobile computing device, such as, but not limited to, a wearable computing device, a mobile telephone, laptop, tablet, computing pad, netbook, gaming device, and/or any other portable device. The user device316includes at least one processor and a memory. The user device316can also include a user interface component.

In other examples, the notification314is output to the user318via a user interface component110associated with the computing device102. The user interface component110can include an auditory output device (speaker), a visual output device (display screen), a virtual reality output device, an augmented reality output device, or any other type of output device for notifying the user318to make a visual inspection of a termination zone for verification.

In some examples, if the response320indicates the presence of at least one item assigned to at least one RFID tag in the termination zone, the zone manager component does not remove the items associated with the stationary RFID tags in the termination zone from the PI. In other examples, if the response320indicates the presence of at least one item assigned to at least one RFID tag in the termination zone and the items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone have already been removed from the PI, the zone manager component updates the PI to add the items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone back into the PI. This prevents erroneous removal of items from PI which are still physically present in on-hand inventory.

In some examples, the verification component is utilized to verify the location or presence of a termination zone where the items associated with the RFID tag(s) are very small items. For example, if the items associated with the set of RFID tags in a location are small ink cartridges, notebooks, pencils, paperclips, or other small items, verification of the termination zone is performed before removing the items from inventory. The verification can be a manual verification performed by a human user or verification performed based on sensor data generated by one or more sensor devices. In other examples, verification is performed after removal of items from inventory if feedback, user input, sensor data, or other data updates indicate a potential error associated with removal of one or more items from the inventory.

FIG. 4is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a zone manager component132dynamically updating per-item criteria for detecting termination zones. In some examples, the verification component306obtains transaction data404from a set of one or more point-of-sale (POS) devices. The transaction data404includes data associated with at least one item in the plurality of items associated with RFID tags in a termination zone. The verification component306analyzes the transaction data404to determine whether at least one item in the plurality of items is associated with a transaction after removal of the item from the PI. In other words, if an item associated with an RFID tag in a termination zone is involved in a transaction, such as a purchase transaction, the items associated with the RFID tags in the termination zone cannot have been physically absent from the store. The verification component306re-designates the three-dimensional space associated with the termination zone as a non-termination zone. The plurality of items associated with the stationary RFID tags in the three-dimensional space re-designated as a non-termination zone are added back to the PI.

In other examples, the verification component306analyzes sensor data130received from a plurality of sensor devices to determine whether any items associated with RFID tags in the termination zone are physically present in the termination zone. The sensor data130includes data from one or more sensor devices, such as the set of sensor devices116inFIG. 1. The sensor data130can include, without limitation, image data generated by an image capture device (camera), scan data generated by a scanner device, weight sensor data generated by a weight sensor, pressure data generated by a pressure sensor data, or any other type of data. The scan data can include data generated by scanning a UPC, a barcode, a matrix barcode, or any other type of item identifier.

The verification component306in other examples analyzes user input received from one or more user devices indicating whether one or more items associated with RFID tags in the termination zone are physically present in the termination zone. The user input410can include input received from a user device, such as the response320inFIG. 3.

A machine learning component412analyzes feedback418, transaction data404, and sensor data130, including scan data, using pattern recognition data416to generate updated per-item criteria414in real-time. The updated per-item criteria414includes criteria such as, but not limited to, the per-item criteria134inFIG. 1and/or the set of per-item criteria218inFIG. 2.

The feedback418in some examples is feedback received from one or more user devices associated with one or more users. The feedback can indicate whether items removed from PI based on identification of termination zones was accurate. The feedback can also indicate whether an area identified as a termination zone is correct or erroneously identified as a termination zone.

For example, if feedback indicates that a termination zone was actually an abandoned cart containing items which were erroneously removed from inventory before the items were removed from the cart and restocked, the machine learning component412can increase the minimum threshold stationary time-period to allow greater time for items to be found and restocked prior to designating the location of those items as a termination zone.

In another example, if an area outside an item display space is consistently verified as a termination zone, the machine learning component412decreases the minimum threshold stationary time-period for designating the area as a termination zone and/or decreases the minimum number of items required to accumulate within the location before the location is designated (identified) as a termination zone.

The feedback418is obtained by a feedback component420. In some examples, the feedback component420sends query422to one or more user devices requesting feedback regarding updates to PI and/or designation of one or more areas as a termination zone.

FIG. 5is an exemplary block diagram illustrating an item selection area500including a plurality of sensor devices502. The item selection area500is an area including a plurality of items associated with one or more display areas. The display areas can include shelves, side-counters, end-cap displays, refrigerated displays, freezer compartments, gondola shelves, bins, or any other item display. The item selection area500can include an interior portion of a store, an exterior portion of a store, and/or any other retail environment.

The plurality of sensor devices502includes one or more sensor devices within the item selection area for generating sensor data associated with one or more items in the plurality of items. The plurality of sensor devises116can include a plurality of RFID tag readers504for generating RFID tag data, such as, but not limited to, the RFID tag readers118inFIG. 1. The plurality of RFID tag readers504obtain RFID tag data from a plurality of RFID tags120associated with a plurality of items516.

Scanner device(s)506include one or more scanner devices for generating scan data508. The scanner device(s)506can include a barcode reader, a UPC code reader, a matrix barcode reader, quick response (QR) code reader, or any other type of scanner.

The plurality of sensor devices502optionally includes a set of robotic sensor devices510. A robotic sensor device is an autonomous sensor device capable of moving through the item selection area and scanning items in the plurality of items. A robotic sensor device can be self-propelled, including a motor, a guidance system and/or sensor for guiding the robotic sensor device.

The plurality of sensor devices502optionally includes weight sensor(s)512for generating weight data514associated with the plurality of items516, image capture device(s)518generating image data308associated with the plurality of items516, and/or pressure sensor(s)522generating pressure sensor data524associated with the plurality of items516.

In some examples, the zone detection component re-designates a termination zone as a non-termination zone if the sensor data generated by the plurality of sensors116indicates that at least one item associated with at least one RFID tag within the termination zone is physically present within the item selection area.

In other examples, the verification component verifies a location is a termination zone based on an analysis of the sensor data obtained from the plurality of sensor devices502. If the termination zone is verified, the items associated with RFID tags in the termination zone are removed from the PI.

FIG. 6is an exemplary block diagram illustrating an item selection area600including a plurality of RFID tag readers504. The plurality of RFID tag readers504in this non-limiting example includes RFID tag reader604, RFID tag reader606, RFID tag reader608and RFID tag reader610. In other examples, the plurality of RFID tag readers504can include two RFID tag readers, three RFID tag readers, as well as five or more RFID tag readers.

The RFID tag readers obtain RFID tag data from one or more RFID tags within the item selection area600. In this example, the RFID tags include RFID tag612associated with item614and RFID tag616associated with item618within an item display area620.

FIG. 7is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a plurality of stationary RFID tags204. The plurality of stationary RFID tags204includes a set of RFID tags702in a designated item display area704, such as, but not limited to, the display area620inFIG. 6. The set of RFID tags706is a set of two or more stationary RFID tags located within a predetermined location708, such as, but not limited to, the termination zone630inFIG. 6.

FIG. 8is an exemplary block diagram illustrating an item selection area800including a set of RFID tags802in a non-display area804, such as, but not limited to, the termination zone630inFIG. 6and/or the predetermined location708inFIG. 7. The non-display area804is an area that is not assigned to display of an item assigned to any RFID tag in the set of RFID tags802. For example, if the set of RFID tags802are tags assigned to tires, the non-display area804is an area which is not assigned to display or store tires. The non-display area can include a space inside a trash can, an area on an open floor space, an area in an aisle, an area under a shelf, an area inside an empty bin or other container, etc. The set of RFID tags802may not be attached to the items associated with the set of RFID tags802.

The set of RFID tags806is a set of one or more RFID tags associated with one or more items in a display area620. The display area620is an area assigned to display and/or storage of one or more items assigned to the set of RFID tags806. In this example, the set of RFID tags806include tags assigned to a set of one or more items, such as the set of one or more tires808. Thus, each tag in the set of RFID tags806is attached or otherwise associated with a tire in the set of tires. The display area620includes any area assigned to store, hold, display, stack, or otherwise contain one or more tires in the set of tires808. A display area can include any area in which items are assigned. A display area can be an item storage area, a check-out area, an item return area, dressing room, customer service area, a shelf display, a clearance bin or cart, or any other area designated for storage or display of items.

In one example, if the non-display area804is a three-dimensional space that is one cubic foot and dimensions of a single tire is greater than the one cubic foot space of the non-display area804, the system assumes that the set of RFID tags802located within the non-display area and assigned to tires which are too large to fit within the non-display area804are detached or otherwise separated from the tires. In other words, if the non-display area804is too small to contain the tires assigned to the set of RFID tags802, the set of RFID tags802are detached tags removed from the tires.

In one example, the non-display area804is an interior space of a trash can or other waste receptacle. As each tire in the set of tires808is sold or installed on a vehicle, the RFID tag for that tire is removed and placed into the non-display area804. The system monitors the accumulation of the RFID tags in the non-display area. When the number of tags in the non-display area surpasses a threshold number of RFID tags and the tags remain stationary in the non-display area for a threshold time-period, the non-display area804is identified as a termination zone and the items associated with the set of RFID tags802are removed from inventory.

In the example shown inFIG. 8, the RFID tags are assigned to tires. However, the examples are not limited to using RFID tags attached to tires. The system in other examples uses RFID tag data associated with items other than tires.

FIG. 9is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a three-dimensional space900including a plurality of stationary RFID tags. The three-dimensional space is a space, such as, but not limited to, the three-dimensional space206inFIG. 2.

The three-dimensional space900includes a height902, a length904and a width906. The three-dimensional space encloses RFID tags, such as, but not limited to, RFID tag908, RFID tag910, RFID tag912, RFID tag914, RFID tag916, RFID tag918and RFID tag920. In this example, the three-dimensional space is a cube-shape. However, in other examples, the three-dimensional shape includes a cylindrical shape, a rectangular shape, a pyramid shape, a spherical shape, an irregular shape, or any other shape.

FIG. 10is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a database1000storing data. The database1000can be stored on storage device, such as, but not limited to, the data storage device124inFIG. 1.

The database1000can include a set of per-item criteria218. The set of per-item criteria218are customized for each type of item. In other words, the criteria applied to a pair of shoes can be different than the criteria applied to a digital video disk (DVD).

The set of per-item criteria218can include, without limitation, a per-item minimum threshold number of items per unit1004of space. For example, a criterium can specify a minimum of two tires per five cubic foot non-display space and a minimum of ten packages of socks per one cubic foot non-display space prior to designating the space as a termination zone. In another example, the criteria specifies that a group of ten or fewer RFID tags should be ignored/disregarded.

The set of per-item criteria218can include a minimum amount of space per item1006. The minimum amount of space specifies an amount of space which would be too small to contain an item. The minimum amount of space for an ink cartridge can be a cubic inch while the minimum amount of space for a tire can be two or three cubic feet.

The set of per-item criteria218in some examples includes a minimum threshold stationary time-period1008. The minimum threshold stationary time-period1008indicates the minimum amount of time that one or more RFID tags remain motionless in a location before that location can be considered a termination zone. For example, if the threshold stationary time is twenty minutes and a set of RFID tags are only stationary for five minutes before resuming motion, the system can determine that the RFID tags are associated with items in a cart and not a termination zone. This prevents the system from removing items in a user's shopping cart or items being collected together for restocking from inventory prematurely.

The set of per-item criteria218can optionally include a rate of accumulation1010of RFID tags in the non-display area. For example, if RFID tags are added to the non-display space at regular intervals or if numerous RFID tags are added to the space simultaneously this rate of accumulation can be utilized to determine if the tags are detached tags and/or determine whether the location is an RFID termination zone.

The set of per-item criteria218in other examples includes a removal frequency1012. The removal frequency indicates how frequently and/or when the RFID tags are removed from the non-display area and/or taken out of the range of the RFID tag readers. In an example, if the non-display area is a trash receptacle accumulating RFID tags as they are removed from tires installed on vehicles or otherwise sold to customers, the removal frequency is be utilized to determine whether the RFID tags removal from the non-display area and/or the item selection area coincides with emptying of the trash receptacle and/or trash pick-up.

The set of per-item criteria218can also include a threshold concentration1014. The threshold concentration1014is a density or number of RFID tags associated with a given item within a given amount of space. The non-display space can be designated as a termination zone when the concentration or density of RFID tags associated with one or more items reaches the threshold concentration for a predetermined amount of space.

The per-item criteria218is not limited to the criteria shown inFIG. 10. The per-item criteria218can include criteria for homogeneous RFID tags or heterogenous RFID tags. In an example, the per-item criteria218includes a criterion indicating that if a heterogenous collection of RFID tags associated with a variety of different items not typically located together in the same area, it indicates the RFID tags are detached tags in a termination zone.

In another example, the per-item criteria218indicates whether a threshold number of homogenous RFID tags associated with the same type of item are found together in the same location. If the threshold number of homogenous RFID tags are found together within a given three-dimensional space, it indicates the space is a termination zone.

In still another example, the per-item criteria includes a time and/or date criterion. For example, if five RFID tags aggregate during a time-period when no restocking is schedule, that can be sufficient for identifying the area as a termination zone. However, during a restocking period, five RFID tags aggregated together may be insufficient for identifying a termination zone due to the risk of mistakenly identifying items being restocked as RFID tags in a termination zone. Thus, the criteria for identifying a termination zone can vary/change based on the time of day, day of the week, season, work schedules, etc.

The database1000can also include item data126. The item data126includes data associated with one or more items. The item data126can include an item identification (ID)1018, item dimensions1020and/or planogram1022. A planogram1022identifies placement/location of items within an item selection area. The planogram1022can define where items are placed and quantifies of items in each location.

Location data128can optionally be stored in database1000. The location data128can include dimensions1026of a location or three-dimensional space, planogram data1028associated with a location or area surrounding the location, identification of display areas1030and/or identification of non-display areas1032. The display areas1030include one or more areas, such as, but not limited to, the display area620inFIG. 6andFIG. 8and/or the designated item display area704inFIG. 7. The non-display areas1032include one or more areas where item displays are absent, such as, but not limited to, the non-display area804inFIG. 8.

FIG. 11is an exemplary flow chart illustrating operation of the computing device to identify a termination zone. The process shown inFIG. 11can be performed by a zone manager component, executing on a computing device, such as the computing device102inFIG. 1or the computing device302inFIG. 3.

The process begins by obtaining RFID tag data from a plurality of RFID tags associated with an item selection area at1102. The RFID tag data is data such as RFID tag data122inFIG. 1andFIG. 2. A tag manager component analyzes the RFID tag data at1104. The tag manager component is a component for identifying stationary RFID tags, such as, but not limited to, the tag manager component202inFIG. 2. The tag manager component identifies a set of stationary RFID tags located outside an item display area for a minimum threshold time-period at1106.

A zone detection component analyzes item data for a set of items corresponding with the set of stationary RFID tags at1108. The zone detection component is a component for identifying RFID tag termination zones, such as, but not limited to, the zone detection component210inFIG. 2. The zone detection component identifies the number of item in the set of items at1110. The zone detection component determines if the number of items exceeds a threshold at1112. If no, the process returns to operation1102. The zone manager component iteratively executes operations1102through1112until the number of items in a set of items exceeds a threshold number of items at1112. The zone detection component identifies the three-dimensional space associated with the set of stationary RFID tags as a termination zone at1114. The process terminates thereafter.

While the operations illustrated inFIG. 11are performed by a computing device, aspects of the disclosure contemplate performance of the operations by other entities. In an example, a cloud service performs one or more of the operations.

FIG. 12is an exemplary flow chart illustrating operation of the computing device to analyze RFID tag data to identify a termination zone. The process shown inFIG. 12can be performed by a zone manager component, executing on a computing device, such as the computing device102inFIG. 1or the computing device302inFIG. 3.

The process begins by obtaining RFID tag data from RFID tags in a location. The RFID tags include one or more RFID tags, such as, but not limited to, the plurality of RFID tags120inFIG. 1, the RFID tags204inFIG. 2and/or the plurality of RFID tags120inFIG. 5. The zone detection component analyzes RFID tag data, item data and location data at1204. The item data is data associated with one or more items, such as, but not limited to, the item data126inFIG. 1,FIG. 2and/orFIG. 10. The location data is data describing the location and/or three-dimensional space containing the stationary RFID tags, such as, but not limited to, the location data128inFIG. 1,FIG. 2and/orFIG. 10.

The zone detection component determines whether the set of RFID tags are stationary at1206. If yes, the zone detection component determines whether the set of RFID tags are located outside an item display area at1208. The item display area is an area associated with display or storage of items, such as, but not limited to, the item display area620inFIG. 6andFIG. 8and/or the designated item display area704inFIG. 7.

If the set of RFID tags are located outside the display area, the zone detection component determines whether the number of RFID tags in the set of RFID tags exceeds a threshold number at1210. If yes, the zone detection component determines whether the set of RFID tags are stationary for a threshold time at1212. If yes, the zone detection component determines whether the three-dimensional space associated with the location of the set of RFID tags is sufficient to contain the set of items corresponding to the set of RFID tags. If yes, the process returns to operation1202. The zone manager component iteratively executes operations1202through1214.

If a determination is made that the three-dimensional space associated with the location of the RFID tags is insufficient at1214, the zone detection component identifies the location as a termination zone at1216. The process terminates thereafter.

While the operations illustrated inFIG. 12are performed by a computing device, aspects of the disclosure contemplate performance of the operations by other entities. In an example, a cloud service performs one or more of the operations.

FIG. 13is an exemplary flow chart illustrating operation of the computing device to update perpetual inventory (PI) based on identified termination zones. The process shown inFIG. 13can be performed by a zone manager component, executing on a computing device, such as the computing device102inFIG. 1or the computing device302inFIG. 3.

The process begins by identifying a set of stationary RFID tags within a three-dimensional space outside an item display area for a minimum threshold time-period at1302. The zone detection component analyzes the item data for items assigned to the set of stationary RFID tags at1304. A zone detection component analyzes location data for the three-dimensional space at1306. The zone detection component determines whether the three-dimensional space is sufficient to contain the set of items associated with the set of RFID tags at1308. If yes, the process terminates thereafter.

If the space is not sufficient at1308, an inventory manager component removes the set of items corresponding to the set of stationary RFID tags from perpetual inventory at1310. The inventory manager is a component for updating perpetual inventory, such as, but not limited to, the inventory manager component224inFIG. 2. The process terminates thereafter.

While the operations illustrated inFIG. 13are performed by a computing device, aspects of the disclosure contemplate performance of the operations by other entities. In an example, a cloud service performs one or more of the operations.

ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES

In some examples, a system is provided for automatic reconciliation of perpetual inventory without human interaction. The system detects stationary RFID tags at a non-display location. The system identifies the location where the RFID tags are being sensed/detected as a termination zone based on associated item (product) and location data. The system performs inventory management using machine learning to auto-learn termination zones, determine how many RFID tags could fit in a space and/or how many RFID tags could fit at a location based on item dimension/size, space location, etc. The system determines how items fit into a space based on item dimensions/size and space locations to dynamically identify detached RFID tags in a termination zone.

In an example scenario, the system identifies a termination zone based on unusual item associations at a location. For example, if RFID tags within a location are associated with milk, ice cream, fountain pens, and shoes located in an electronics department, the system determines that it is unlikely this unusual grouping of unrelated items would be physically present and grouped together in the electronics department for the threshold time-period without being moved or removed by store personnel. Therefore, the system assumes these RFID tags are unattached to their associated items based on the identifications of the items and the unlikely combinations of the items, as well as the unusual location of the items. Thus, a single location containing a plurality of tags identified as unusual based on location or item association with that location is identified as a termination zone. Items associated with detached or “thrown away” RFID tags are purged from inventory to reconcile inventory.

In one example, if fifty RFID tags assigned to car tires are detected within a two-cubic foot space, the system recognizes that fifty tires could not fit within the two-cubic foot space. Therefore, the system assumes those tags have been thrown away and removes the fifty tires associated with those tags from inventory.

In other examples, the system tracks RFID tags to determine where tags are located, and items associated with the tags. If an RFID tags associated with a pair of jeans is removed from the jeans and the tag is dropped on the floor of the store, the system continues to read that RFID tag and show the jeans in current inventory even though the jeans are not physically present in the store. The system analyzes the RFID tag data, item data and location data to identify these removed RFID tags and delete items associated with removed RFID tags from inventory to reflect the fact that the jeans, and other items associated with removed tags, are no longer available in on-hand inventory. Items associated with RFID tags in an unusual location (located in trash heap) or an unusual compilation of RFID tags (collection of tags for mixed items that are not usually displayed or stored together) are removed from the perpetual inventory system.

In other examples, the system monitors RFID tag data to determine where RFID tags are collecting. The system analyzes data to determine where the tags enter the termination zone and when/where the tags leave the termination zone. For example, if all RFID tags are removed from the location during stocking/restocking of shelves, the system determines the location is not a termination zone but a temporary storage area for items prior to stocking. However, if the RFID tags are removed from the location at the same time as an area is cleaned (tags swept away), the system determines that the RFID tags are detached tags in a termination zone. RFID tags in the termination zone are filtered/ignored by the inventory system such that items associated with the RFID tags are not included in current inventory.

In one example, termination zones are dynamically changing. A location identified on a first day as a termination zone may not be a termination zone on a second day. In other words, termination zone locations, termination zone sizes/dimensions, and/or types of RFID tags within a termination zone change from day to day.

The system identifies a termination zone based on per-item criteria, such as, but not limited to, the concentration or density of RFID tags within a predetermined volume/area of space. If the number of items per known volume/area of space exceeds a threshold number of RFID tags for a given item, the system identifies that location as a termination zone and removes items associated with RFID tags in the termination zone from inventory for automatic PI correction. The system utilizes machine learning to dynamically adjust/reconfigure the threshold concentration, threshold number of tags, threshold number of items, and/or other per-item criteria for detection of termination zones. For example, a threshold number of items can be fifty RFID tags for a cubic foot of space. As the system learns, it can adjust the threshold number of tags down to forty tags, then down to thirty tags, and eventually stabilize the threshold minimum number of tags for a termination zone at five RFID tags per cubic foot.

The system can include video analytics in some examples. The video analytics detect when trash bags are taken out. If RFID tags in a location disappear from a monitored area when the trash is removed, the system learns that the location is a termination zone. Likewise, if the video analytics detect when items are restocked on shelves and the RFID tags in the location disappear from the location during restocking, the system learns that the location was not a termination zone.

Transaction data can also be used to verify locations of termination zones. The transaction data can also be used for theft/shrinkage detection. For example, if forty-five items are sold but fifty RFID tags associated with that type of items is taken out, the system can identify the loss or theft of five items.

In another example, the RFID tag data is data gathered at a store-level. However, termination zone data from two or more store locations can be utilized at a regional level for generating machine learning training data, improving per-item criteria, identifying termination zone patterns, identifying regional item shrinkage, etc.

In another example, the system self-corrects. If the system removes an item from inventory that is later identified on a shelf based on user input or scan data, the system autocorrects/updates inventory and adjusts the per-item criteria to prevent the same error from occurring again in the future.

Alternatively, or in addition to the other examples described herein, examples include any combination of the following:a set of image capture devices associated with the three-dimensional space within the item selection area generating image data associated with the plurality of RFID tags;a verification component, implemented on the at least one processor, that verifies the termination zone based on an analysis of the image data using item recognition analytics indicating an absence of the plurality of items within the three-dimensional space;the inventory manager component, implemented on the at least one processor, that updates the PI to add the at least one item to the PI on condition the at least one item is identified as physically present within the three-dimensional space based on the analysis of the image data;a notification component, implemented on the at least one processor, that sends a notification to a user to visually inspect the three-dimensional space for a presence of at least one item in the plurality of items within the three-dimensional space;a verification component, implemented on the at least one processor, that analyzes a response received from the user device verifying whether the at least one item in the plurality of items is physically present within the three-dimensional space;wherein the verification component verifies the three-dimensional space as a termination zone in response to receiving a confirmation of an absence of the at least one item within the three-dimensional space from the user device;the inventory manager component, implemented on the at least one processor, that updates the PI to add the at least one item to the PI on condition the response received from the user device confirms a presence of the at least one item within the three-dimensional space;a set of point-of-sale (POS) devices generating transaction data associated with at least one item in the plurality of items;a verification component, implemented on the at least one processor, that analyzes the transaction data to determine whether at least one item in the plurality of items is associated with a transaction after removal of the item from the PI;the zone detection component, implemented on the at least one processor, that re-designates the three-dimensional space as a non-termination zone in response to determining an item associated with an RFID tag in the termination zone is scanned or purchased by a user during a transaction after removal of the item from PI, wherein the plurality of items in the termination zone are added back into the PI;a set of scanner devices generating scan data identifying at least one item physically present within the item selection area;the zone detection component, implemented on the at least one processor, that re-designates the three-dimensional space as a non-termination zone on condition the at least one item physically present within the item selection area is an item in the termination zone;a machine learning component, implemented on the at least one processor, that analyzes feedback data, transaction data, and sensor data, including item scan data, using pattern recognition to update the set of per-item criteria in real-time;wherein the set of per-item criteria further comprises at least one of a rate of item accumulation within the three-dimensional space, removal frequency for a set of RFID tags within the three-dimensional space, a minimum amount of space to accommodate a single item, or a maximum item concentration for a predetermined amount of space;an analysis component, implemented on the at least one processor, that analyzes item data, including item dimensions, associated with each item in the plurality of items to determine whether the plurality of items fit within the three-dimensional space;the zone detection component, implemented on the at least one processor, that determines plurality of RFID tags are unattached to the plurality of items and designates the three-dimensional space as the termination zone on condition the three-dimensional space is insufficient to accommodate the plurality of items based on the item dimensions and dimensions of the three-dimensional space;removing, by an inventory manager component, the set of items associated with the set of stationary RFID tags from current on-hand inventory on condition the predetermined location is designated as the termination zone;analyzing item data associated with the plurality of items and location data associated with the three-dimensional space using a set of termination zone criteria to determine whether the three-dimensional space is a termination zone;identifying each tag in the set of stationary RFID tags as an unattached tag within an RFID tag termination zone on condition the three-dimensional space is identified as the termination zone;analyzing, by a machine learning component, feedback, transaction data associated with the plurality of items, and item data using pattern recognition to generate an updated set of per-item criteria;verifying, by a verification component, the predetermined location is a termination zone based on an analysis of sensor data obtained from a plurality of sensors associated with the predetermined location;the plurality of sensors including at least one of an image capture device, and wherein the sensor data comprises at least one of image data associated with at least a portion of the predetermined location;verifying, by a verification component, the predetermined location is a termination zone based on an analysis of feedback received from a user device associated with a user;analyzing item data associated with a plurality of items corresponding to a plurality of stationary RFID tags and location data associated with a three-dimensional space containing the plurality of stationary RFID tags using a set of per-item criteria to determine whether the three-dimensional space qualifies as a termination zone;the set of per-item criteria comprising threshold minimum number of items within a predetermined amount of space;a tag management component, implemented on the at least one processor, that identifies the plurality of stationary RFID tags based on an analysis of RFID tag data associated with the plurality of RFID tag readers using a minimum threshold stationary time-period;a feedback component, implemented on the at least one processor, that outputs a query to a user device associated with at least one user via the communications interface component, the query requesting feedback associated with presence of items within the termination zone;a machine learning component, implemented on the at least one processor, that analyzes the feedback, transaction data, planogram data, restocking data, and inventory data to update the set of per-item criteria;a zone detection component, implemented on the at least one processor, that identifies a termination zone including the plurality of stationary RFID tags based on an analysis of historical termination zone data associated with the item selection area, item data associated with a plurality of items assigned to the plurality of stationary RFID tags, and location data associated with the termination zone using a set of per-item criteria, the termination zone comprising a three-dimensional space located outside the item display area, the set of per-item criteria comprising a threshold minimum stationary time-period, the historical termination zone data comprising the item data and the location data associated with at least one prior termination zone;a notification component, implemented on the at least one processor, that outputs a notification to a user device associated with a user assigning the user to perform a visual inspection of the three-dimensional space to confirm the plurality of items associated with the plurality of stationary RFID tags are physically absent from the termination zone; and wherein the plurality of sensor devices comprises at least one of a set of mobile robotic sensor devices, a set of weight sensor devices, a set of scanner devices, a set of image capture devices, and a set of pressure sensors.

In some examples, the operations illustrated inFIG. 11,FIG. 12andFIG. 13can be implemented as software instructions encoded on a computer readable medium, in hardware programmed or designed to perform the operations, or both. For example, aspects of the disclosure can be implemented as a system on a chip or other circuitry including a plurality of interconnected, electrically conductive elements.

The term “Wi-Fi” as used herein refers, in some examples, to a wireless local area network using high frequency radio signals for the transmission of data. The term “BLUETOOTH®” as used herein refers, in some examples, to a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances using short wavelength radio transmission. The term “NFC” as used herein refers, in some examples, to a short-range high frequency wireless communication technology for the exchange of data over short distances.

Exemplary Operating Environment

Exemplary computer readable media include flash memory drives, digital versatile discs (DVDs), compact discs (CDs), floppy disks, and tape cassettes. By way of example and not limitation, computer readable media comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and the like. Computer storage media are tangible and mutually exclusive to communication media. Computer storage media are implemented in hardware and exclude carrier waves and propagated signals. Computer storage media for purposes of this disclosure are not signals per se. Exemplary computer storage media include hard disks, flash drives, and other solid-state memory. In contrast, communication media typically embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or the like, in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and include any information delivery media.

The examples illustrated and described herein as well as examples not specifically described herein but within the scope of aspects of the disclosure constitute exemplary means for dynamic termination zone detection. For example, the elements illustrated inFIG. 1,FIG. 2,FIG. 3,FIG. 4,FIG. 5,FIG. 6,FIG. 7,FIG. 8,FIG. 9andFIG. 10, such as when encoded to perform the operations illustrated inFIG. 11,FIG. 12andFIG. 13, constitute exemplary means for analyzing RFID tag data obtained from a plurality of RFID tags associated with a plurality of items within an item selection area; exemplary means for identifying a set of RFID tags within the plurality of stationary RFID tags remaining within a predetermined location outside a designated item display area for a threshold minimum stationary time-period; exemplary means for analyzing item data associated with a set of items corresponding to the set of stationary RFID tags, including dimensions of each item in the set of items, with a set of dimensions defining a three-dimensional space associated with the predetermined location to determine whether the three-dimensional space associated with the predetermined location is sufficient to accommodate the set of items; and exemplary means for designating the predetermined location as a termination zone on condition a number of items in the set of stationary RFID tags exceeds a minimum threshold number of items for the three-dimensional space and the three-dimensional space is incapable of accommodating the set of items. The set of dimensions can include, in some non-limiting examples, an x coordinate, a y-coordinate, and a z-coordinate.