Method and system for monitoring point of sale exceptions

#1. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates to digital video recording and surveillance systems. More specifically, this invention relates to automated correlation of video data from digital video recording and surveillance systems with asynchronous transactions data from one-to-many discrete inputs.

#2. Discussion of the Related Art

#The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention.

#In the drawings:

#FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration for POS related functions according to one embodiment of the present invention;

#Reference will now be made in detail to an embodiment of the present invention, example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

#The present invention integrates legacy systems (e.g., POS terminals, CCTV video surveillance systems, EAS, fire alarms, etc.) from transactional environments and correlates information outputs from each of the legacy systems in a pro-active and meaningful way. Synergistic results stemming from the aforementioned integration includes the ability to identify abnormal repetition of patterns of certain events that are indicative of fraud, theft, or inadequate training, and that warrant further investigation. Non-inclusive exemplary transactional environments include grocery stores, convenience stores, mass merchandise stores, specialty stores, music stores, home improvement stores, pawn shops, etc. Typical targets for video surveillance cameras include check out lanes, building entry and exit points, shopping aisles, customer services desks, specialty departments, etc. According to the principles of the present invention, secure access provided to video generated within the transactional environment.

#The method and medium by which manufacturers of cash register and other POS terminals format, transmit, and store transactional data is extremely diverse. As described above, some POS terminals immediately transmit the transaction data to their POS host/controller immediately after every item is scanned or entered. Other POS terminals hold or buffer the information in an internal memory until a certain time or until a buffer reaches a certain time or space threshold before transmitting the transaction data to the POS host/controller. POS terminals typically assemble and use data in a proprietary structure and format. Being capable of reading the data generated from one POS terminal does not ensure the ability to read data from another POS terminal. The present invention incorporates a flexible design accommodating open compatibility with a plurality of POS terminals and operational methodologies.