Merchandise activity sensor system and methods of using same

An overhead, active deterrent system to reduce theft in a retail environment comprising:

• a housing identifiable as a dome style video surveillance camera;
• a sensing technology;
• at least one local audio capability;
• at least one visual cue;
• microprocessor;
• and
• at least one algorithm that filters data according to criteria programed by a user in order to identify occurrences of interest and intelligently suppress redundant activations;
• wherein the microprocessor has the capability to accept inputs from external theft detection devices;
• wherein the microprocessor has the capability to provide outputs to external theft deterrent devices;
• and
• wherein the microprocessor has an optional capability to notify store associates, wherein the at least one algorithm provides multiple filtering and activation suppression functions, the functions comprising:
• a) calculates a length of time a customer is present and determines whether the customer is passing through an aisle and not dwelling in front of merchandise;
• b) provides a hold off period which suppresses activations for a programmable period of time;
• c) provides an intelligent re-arm function which, following the hold off period, uses the sensing technology to detect if the area of interest remains occupied, and
• d) if the area of interest remains occupied, the algorithm will continue to hold off further activations until the area is clear of activity.