WO1999059115A1

WO1999059115A1 - A fitting/changing room security system and method of monitoring goods taken into such a fitting/changing room

Info

Publication number: WO1999059115A1
Application number: PCT/GB1999/001468
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Edward Dowling; Terrance Henry Osborne
Original assignee: Dowling Blunt Limited
Priority date: 1998-05-08
Filing date: 1999-05-10
Publication date: 1999-11-18
Also published as: GB0027413D0; AU3838199A; GB2353604B; GB2353604A

Abstract

A fitting/changing room security system comprising scales (11) for weighing goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room and means for storing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room. The weights of the goods taken into and subsequently out of the fitting/changing room are compared, thereby to determine whether a possible theft has occurred.

Description

A Fitting/Changing Room Security System and Method of Monitoring Goods taken into such a Fitting/Changing Room

This invention relates to a fitting/ changing room security system and method of monitoring goods taken into such a fitting/changing room.

Most department stores nowadays provide fitting/changing facilities to enable customers to try on clothes or other items prior to purchase. This is advantageous for the customer but presents a potential security problem for the store. In order to overcome this problem, many systems have been proposed to limit the risk of theft, or accidental taking of articles by customers, in fitting/changing rooms.

One known method for monitoring goods taken into a fitting/changing room is to provide the customer with a token or card that is coded, for example by- colour, to indicate the number of items being taken in. When the customer subsequently leaves the changing room the number of items being taken out is checked and compared with the number indicated by the token. Discrepancies alert the shop assistant to the possibility that a theft may have occurred.

The problem with this method is that relatively small items can be readily hidden prior to entry into the fitting/changing room and then swapped with a larger and more expensive item once the customer is in the privacy' of the fitting/changing room. This type of activity cannot be prevented using the token system as provided the swap is successfully carried out. the customer can then leave the fitting/changing room with the correct number of items. Hence. the shop assistant would not be alerted to any possibility that a theft may have occurred.

Another known fitting/changing room security system has a bar code reader for reading the bar codes that are provided on clothes labels. In this arrangement, the bar code of each item taken into the changing room by a particular customer is scanned and stored on a magnetic card. The card is then given to the customer to take into the changing room. When the customer subsequently leaves the changing area, the bar codes of each item are again scanned and the results compared with those scanned at the time of entry. If the goods scanned at the point of exit correspond to those scanned at the point of entry, then there is no problem. However, if there are differences between the stored entry point bar codes and the scanned exit point codes, the system operator is alerted to the possibility of theft.

A disadvantage of this system is that it is relatively easy for shoplifters to swap the labels on clothes taken into the fitting/changing room, such as from relatively expensive goods to cheaper such goods. This makes it easier for shoplifters to steal expensive items as they can be replaced with other items provided the appropriate label is attached to those other items. In addition. because the label of every item taken into the fitting/changing room has to be scanned individually, use of this system is time consuming. This is disadvantageous because it can lead to the build up of queues in the changing room and general congestion. In order to limit this problem at particularly busy times, some stores are compelled to stop using their security system altogether, thereby exposing themselves to an increased risk of shop lifting. An object of the present invention is to provide a fitting/ changing room security- system that alleviates the problems of the prior art and is accurate, quick and easy to use.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is a provided a fitting/changing room security system comprising: weighing means for weighing goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for storing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

When using the system, a discrepancy between the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room and the weight of the goods taken therefrom indicates a possible theft.

An advantage of this system is that it is difficult to estimate the weights of goods without the use of accurate scales. Hence, it is difficult for shoplifters to swap goods taken into a fitting/changing room with other such goods without the change in weight being detected. This makes the system secure. Furthermore, several items may be monitored in one check (i.e. weighing). This means that operation of the system is considerably faster and more convenient than prior art processes that require individual checking of items, for example by bar code scanning each item.

Preferably, the means for storing the weight of the goods taken into the changing/fitting room comprises a card or token, typically magnetic and that can be read using a card reader. Additionally or alternatively, the means for storing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room may be provided in a memory, for example in a personal computer or a computer network. The weight is stored with means for identifying the customer, for example, using a code that is associated with a card or token that is given to the customer at the point of entry. The code may be a bar code that is unique to each card or token. An advantage of using a bar code is that there are no moving parts, it is quicker than running a magnetic card through a card reader and there is no degradation of the card with age.

The card or token given to the customer may be indicative of or associated with a particular fitting/changing cubicle, so that the customer can be directed to that particular fitting/changing room. An advantage of this is that it speeds up throughput and so reduces waiting times for customers queuing to get into the fitting changing room.

Preferably the means for comparing comprises a processor. Preferably, the processor is able to communicate with the means for weighing so that the weights of the goods placed thereon can be automatically transmitted to the processor. The processor may be connected to the weighing means via a cable. Preferably, the processor is able to communicate with the card reader so that information can be passed between the processor and the card reader. The processor may be connected to the card reader via a cable. Preferably, the processor is in communication with the card reader and the weighing means.

Preferably, a discrepancy of more than 1 gram, typically more than two grams. indicates the possibility that a theft may have occurred.

Preferably, the weighing means is provided at a combined entry/exit point for weighing goods taken into and out of the fitting/changing room. Alternatively, the weighing means may comprise a first means for weighing the goods taken into the fitting/changing room, the first means being provided at an entrance to the changing/fitting room, and second weighing means for weighing the goods taken from the fitting/changing room, the second weighing means being provided at an exit of the fitting/changing room.

The weighing means may comprise an electronic weigh scale transducer and a weigh pan. The weighing means may include a weighing arm that is adapted to allow clothes to be hung thereon, thereby to allow the clothes to be weighed. Preferably, the weight of the goods is measured to within a preselected tolerance of, for example, less than 0.01%, preferably less than 0.007%. Preferably, the weights are measured to within plus or minus 2 grams.

The weighing means may comprise a rail on which items of clothing can be hung, thereby to enable them to be weighed.

Preferably, a clock or timer is provided together with means for monitoring the time at which a customer enters and leaves the fitting/changing room. Preferably, means are provided for storing the time at which the customer enters the fitting/changing room. Means may be provided for comparing the entry and exit times of the customer thereby to provide an indication of how much time the customer spent in the changing rooms. Preferably, means are provided for indicating when a customer has been in a fitting/changing room for longer than a pre-determined time, for example twenty minutes.

Preferably, means are provided for recording how many items are taken into the fitting/changing room.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a fitting/changing room comprising a fitting/changing area having an entrance and an exit and a system in which the first aspect of the present invention is embodied.

The entrance and the exit may be one and the same. The entrance and the exit may be separate.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of monitoring goods taken into a fitting/changing room comprising: weighing goods taken into the fitting/changing room; storing the weight of the goods taken in; weighing goods being taken from the fitting changing room, and comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken from the fitting/ changing room.

Preferably, the weight of the goods taken in is stored on a card, typically a magnetic card. Alternatively or additionally, the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room may be stored in a memory, for example in a personal computer or a computer network. This weight is stored in association with a code that is given to the customer. This code can. for example, be provided on a card or token that is given to the customer at the point of entry. The code may be a bar code that is unique to each card.

The code or token may be indicative of or associated with a particular fitting/changing cubicle, so that the customer can be directed to that particular fitting/changing room.

Preferably, a processor is used to compare the weights of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken from the fitting/changing room. Preferably, the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room is automatically transmitted to the processor. Preferably, the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room is automatically transmitted to a card writer. Preferably, the weight of the goods being taken from the fitting/changing room is automatically transmitted to the processor.

Preferably, the method involves monitoring how long a customer spends in a fitting/changing room.

According to yet a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a fitting/changing room security system comprising: timing means for timing when a customer takes goods into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for storing a signal indicative of the time at which the customer entered the fitting/changing room, and means for determining the time spent by the customer in the fitting/changing room.

The timing means may comprise a clock. According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program for use in a fitting/changing room security system, the computer program comprising: means for receiving from weighing means weights of goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for causing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a data storage carrier that contains a computer program for use in a fitting/changing room security system, the computer program comprising: means for receiving from weighing means weights of goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for causing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

Preferably, the means for causing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored comprises means for sending a signal to a card writer to cause the card writer to write the weight of the goods onto a card that is to be taken by the customer into the changing/fitting room.

Systems and methods in which the various aspects of the present invention are embodied will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the following Figures, of which:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a first fitting/changing room security system, Figure 2 is a flow diagram of a method for checking goods taken from the fitting/changing room security system of Figure 1, Figure 3 is a front view of a card or token,

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a second fitting/changing room security system that uses the card of Figure 3, and Figure 5 is a diagrammatic representation of a third fitting/changing room security system,

Figure 1 shows a security system 3 for location at a combined entry and exit point in a fitting/changing room. This system 3 has a central processor 5, typically in a personal computer 6, for controlling overall system operation. Connected to the processor 5 is a visual display unit 7 to enable an operator, for example, a shop assistant, to interface with the system 3. Additionally, a keyboard 9 is provided to enable the operator to enter data into the processor and allow more advanced interaction with the system. For example, the keyboard can be used to enter into the processor 5 the number of goods being taken into the fitting/changing room and a code, e.g. "99 , to indicate that a high value product, such as a cashmere coat, is being taken in.

Also connected to the processor 5 are scales 11 that typically comprise a weigh scale transducer unit and a weigh pan that is connected directly to the transducer. Most goods can be placed on the weigh pan. However, in order to weigh certain goods effectively, these need to be hung. To this end. a weighing arm (not shown) is typically provided connected directly to the weigh scale transducer.

Scales 1 1 are used for measuring the weight of goods to be taken into or out of a fitting/changing room. It is envisaged that the goods to be weighed will typically be clothing, foot-ware, headwear or other such items to be worn. However, other types of goods which the customer intends to purchase, such as food products could be included on the scales in a combined food/clothing store. The weight of the goods is measured on the scale transducer unit in an analogue form to a pre-specified tolerance, typically to within 2 grams in 30 kilograms, that is less than 0.01%, and of the order of 0.0067%. The analogue signal is transmitted to an analogue to digital converter that converts the analogue weight to a digital format indicative of the weight. This digital signal is then forwarded to the processor 5.

Connected to the processor 5 is a card reader 13 that is able to both read and write to customer cards, typically, magnetic cards. Each customer who enters the fitting/changing room is given a unique card. This card has a pre-specified number that associates it with a particular fitting room to which the customer is directed. The card reader 13 may also include a clock. Written onto the card by- card reader 13 are the weight of the goods, as measured when the customer enters the fitting/changing room, the time of entry, the number of items being weighed and, if appropriate, the code "99" indicating the presence of a high value product.

Also connected to the processor 5 is a cancel button 15 that when depressed can cancel the checking process at any stage. Included in the processor 5 is the main operating system software for providing the interface between the weighing system and the fitting room assistant. This operating software generates prompts that provide instructions to the assistant. Also provided is software for comparing the weight of goods weighed on the weigh scales when a customer enters the changing/fitting room and the corresponding weight when that customer subsequently leaves the changing room. If the difference between the weight of the goods when the customer enters the fitting room and the weight of the goods when the customer exits the fitting room is within a pre-specified limit, then the check is acceptable and the processor 5 generates a prompt to notify the assistant. This prompt may be, for example, lighting of a green LED located on the processor 5 or anywhere else it can be seen by the operator. If the difference in weights is outside that tolerance then this indicates the possibility of theft and the processor 5 generates a prompt to alert the assistant, for example by switching on a red LED.

The processor also contains additional software for enabling interaction with the system by for example a store supervisor. Access to the facilities that this software provides is generally gained using a dedicated supervisor card. When the supervisor card is recognised by the card reader, a signal is sent to the processor 5 to enable the supervisor to interact with the system. The software available at this level typically enables the supervisor to re-set the system when an error has been made by the fitting room assistant or the customer, and shut down and re-enable the system as and when required. Additionally, typically. the supervisor can determine which of the customer cards have not been returned, and whether any of them have been outstanding for a prolonged period of time. Further software is also generally available in the processor to provide a controller level that is only accessible when a dedicated controller card is inserted in the card reader. This software monitors and updates management information. Typically, the control card can only be used if an additional password is typed into the system using the keyboard 9.

Using the control level software it is possible to modify the set up parameters of the system. For example, title and store numbers can be altered so that the system can be customised for a particular store. Also, the number of fitting rooms can be up-dated and/or adjusted to suit specific in-store requirements, the weight limits and fail parameters can be altered and a clear down facility can be accessed to enable the controller to clear all the data stored. In addition, the number of cancelled operations that are allowable before an alarm is generated may be altered.

The control level software is also set up to provide the controller with information on, for example, the number of operations carried out per day per assistant, or per fitting room. In addition, the number of failures per day per assistant it typically monitored, as is the number of supervisor resets per day per fitting room and/or per assistant. This information provides the controller with data that can help detect faulty cards. In addition, this can help detect cases of theft that are assisted by staff members.

In use the system of Figure 1 is typically positioned at the entry/exit point of the fitting/changing room. When a customer wishes to enter the changing room, the goods to be tried on are placed on the scales 11 for weighing, including the associated hangers and attached labels, so that no items overlap the scale pan and touch the display screen or any other surface. The goods could also be placed on the scales 1 1 in a store basket.

Once the goods are on the scales 11 , the processor 5 generates an on-screen prompt requesting the operator to insert a swipe card into the card reader. As is conventional, the card should typically be inserted with the magnetic strip facing down and on the right hand side. The processor 5 then causes the card reader/writer 13 to write onto the card the weight of the goods at the time of entry. Typically, the time at which the customer enters the fitting/changing room is also written onto the card together with the number of items being taken in and, if appropriate the code "99" indicating the presence of a high value product. The card is then returned to the operator and given to the customer together with the goods on the weigh scale. As a verification step for the operator, the processor generates an on-screen indication that the entry checks have been completed. The customer then enters the changing room to try on the selected garments.

When the customer has finished trying on the goods and wishes to leave the fitting area, he must exit the fitting/changing room via the entry/ exit point where the security system is located. In order to leave, the customer returns the card to the operator and places the goods being taken from the fitting/changing room on the weigh pan. Again, the goods should typically include associated hangers and attached labels, and should be placed on the weigh scales so that no items overlap the scale pan or touch the display screen or any other surface. The goods are weighed and the exit weight is transmitted to the processor. Again, the goods may be placed on the scales 1 1 in a store basket. The operator then inserts the card into the card reader 13 to enable it to read the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room, that is the entry weight. The stored entry weight is then automatically transmitted to the processor 5, which compares the entry weight with the weight of the goods as measured at the time of exit. The steps of this method are shown Figure 2. At this stage, the number of items taken into the fitting/changing room is read from the card so that the operator can compare this with the number of items being taken out. In addition, the operator is notified of whether a high value product was taken into the fitting/changing room so that the items being taken out can be checked for a high value product.

If the exit weight of the goods is substantially the same as the entry weight stored on the card within a pre-selected tolerance, for example plus or minus 2 grams, the system generates a prompt advising the operator that the weight checking exercise has been completed and the garments may be removed from the scales 11. If the exit weight is not the same as the stored entry weight the operator is advised and thereby immediately alerted to the possibility of theft.

Discrepancies between the entry and exit weights can indicate several scenarios. for example, that a theft has taken place or merely that the customer has confused his garments with those of others. Alternatively, the customer could have left the garment hangers or labels in the fitting room in error. In these circumstances, the customer should be invited to check all the items in the basket and the fitting room, and the cancel button should be pressed by the operator to cancel the check. The display screen then confirms that the check has been cancelled and requests that the garments be removed from the scale pan. If there is a discrepancy between the entry and exit weights on a subsequent attempt, the processor generates an on-screen prompt advising of the failure. Should this happen the operator should seek assistance from their supervisor or security personnel.

As an additional or alternative check, the processor also compares the stored time at which the customer entered the fitting/changing room and the time of exit. The operator is then advised how much time has elapsed, generally in minutes, between the initial time of weighing at the entry point to the fitting/changing room and the time of weighing at the exit. This can be helpful because if say a customer spent an hour in the fitting/changing room it could be that he or she was, for example, swapping labels from expensive goods to cheap goods, so that the expensive goods could be worn whilst leaving the fitting area and the cheap goods could be returned. Hence, monitoring the time spent in the changing room provides an indication that something unusual has happened. As a further check, the number of items recorded on the customer's card is compared with the number of items being taken from the changing/fitting room. Also, if a code "99" was entered when the customer went into the changing/fitting room, the operator checks to see if a high cost item is being taken out. Discrepancies in either of these checks indicate the possibility that a theft has taken place.

The system may also monitor the time spent by customers in a fitting room and prompt the sales assistant to check on the customer after a pre-selected time has elapsed. The pre-selected time may be more than five minutes, such as more than ten or fifteen minutes, for example twenty or thirty minutes. The preselected time may be altered depending upon store conditions. At any stage should the card be inserted into the card reader incorrectly, it should be taken from the reader and the items on the weigh scale pan should be removed. The processor 5, typically, should then be reset.

Whilst the weight of the goods taken into the changing/fitting room of the system described above is stored on a magnetic card, it will be understood that the entrance weight could equally be stored in a central memory. This memory could, for example, be in the computer 6. However, in these circumstances it is important to ensure that the stored entrance weight can be reliably associated in some way with a particular customer, such as by use of a customer token or card or other identification means. In one system a token bearing a bar code is used. An example of such a token is shown in Figure 3. From this it can be seen that the token has on its surface a fitting room number 31 and a bar code 33. Each of these is unique to the particular fitting room.

Figure 4 shows a system that is similar to that of Figure 1, except in this case the magnetic card reader/writer 13 is replaced with a bar code reader 41. The system of Figure 4 includes scales 42 that have a base portion 43 that contains a load cell and on which a basket or bowl can be placed. Extending upwardly from the base portion 43 is provided a hanging rail 44 onto which goods can be hung. Connected to the base portion of the scales 42 is an analogue to digital converter 45 that converts signals from the scales into digital signals. Connected to the converter 45 is a processor 46, typically that of a personal computer, that can process the digital signals output from the converter 45. Connected to the processor 46 are a monitor 47 that displays control commands to the sales assistant, a keyboard 48 for allowing the sales assistant to enter data and the bar code reader 41. As with the system of Figure 1, in use the system of Figure 4 is typically positioned at the entry/exit point of the fitting/changing room. When a customer wishes to enter the changing room, the goods to be tried on are typically placed on the hanging rail 44, together with the associated hangers and attached labels.

Once the goods are hung from the rail 44 they are then weighed and the processor 46 generates an on-screen prompt requesting the operator to read the bar code 33 from the token that is to be given to the customer. The processor 46 then stores in a central memory the weight of the goods on the rail 44 at the time of entry, together with the unique bar code 33. Typically, the time at which the customer enters the fitting/changing room is also stored, together with the number of items being taken in and, if appropriate the code "99" indicating the presence of a high value product. The card is then given to the customer together with the goods on the rail 44. As a verification step for the operator, the processor 46 generates an on-screen indication that the entry checks have been completed. The customer then enters the changing room to try on the selected garments.

When the customer has finished trying on the goods and wishes to leave the fitting area, he must exit the fitting/changing room via the entry/exit point where the security system is located. In order to leave, the customer returns the card to the operator and places the goods being taken from the fitting/changing room on the hanging rail 44 or directly on the base portion 43. Again, the goods should typically include associated hangers and attached labels. The goods are weighed and the exit weight is transmitted from the scales 42 to the processor 46. The operator uses the bar code reader 41 to read the bar code 33 on the card. Once the bar code 33 is entered, the processor 46 searches for the stored bar code 33 and the associated entry details, in particular the entry weight. Once the stored bar code 33 is found, the stored entry weight is automatically transmitted to the processor 46, which compares the entry weight with the weight of the goods as measured at the time of exit. At this stage, the number of items taken into the fitting/changing room is also read from memory so that the operator can compare this with the number of items being taken out. In addition, the operator is notified of whether a high value product was taken into the fitting/changing room so that the items being taken out can be checked for a high value product.

If the exit weight of the goods is substantially the same as the entry weight stored within a pre-selected tolerance, for example plus or minus 2 grams, the system generates a prompt advising the operator that the weight checking exercise has been completed and the garments may be removed from the rail 44. If the exit weight is not the same as the stored entry weight the operator is advised and thereby alerted to the possibility of theft.

As with the system of Figure 1, discrepancies between the entry' and exit weights can indicate several scenarios, each of which are dealt with in a like manner.

Whilst a bar code is described, in fact, it will be appreciated that various means of storing the weight of the goods when the customer enters the fitting/changing room may be employed. Figure 5 shows another changing/fitting room security sy stem 51 that comprises a first entry processor 52 located at the changing/fitting room entry point. Connected to this are scales 53 that include a weigh scale transducer 54 and a weigh pan 55. Also connected to the entry processor 52 are a visual display unit 56, a keyboard 57, a card reader 58, typically a magnetic card reader and a cancel button 59. In communication with this first processor 52 via a cable 60 is another processor 61 located at the changing/fitting room exit point. As with the entry processor 52, this exit processor 61 is connected to exit scales 62, a visual display unit 63, a keyboard 64, a magnetic card reader 65 and a cancel button 66.

In the arrangement of Figure 5, the customer enters the changing room via the entry point and places the goods on the entry scales 54. The operator inserts a card in the magnetic card reader 58 and the weight of the goods is recorded thereon. Also, typically recorded on the card is the time at which the customer enters the fitting room, together with the number of items being taken in and, if appropriate, a code indicating the presence of a high value item. The fitting room or card number, the weight of the goods, the time of entry and the number of items are additionally stored in a system memory either in the entry processor 52 or the exit processor 61 or some other memory that can be accessed by each of the entry and exit processors. The customer then enters the changing room and tries on the garments.

Once finished, the customer then exits the fitting room via an exit point. At this stage the goods carried by the customer are weighed on the exit scales 62. The card is then inserted in the exit point card reader 65, which reads the fitting room or card number and the entry weight therefrom. This information is transmitted to the exit processor 61, as is the exit weight of the goods measured on the scales 62. In the case where the entry weight is also stored in the system memory the processor 60 may perform an additional check to determine whether each of the stored entry weights is the same. The entry weight of the goods is then compared with the weight of the goods as measured on the exit point scales 62. As with the systems of Figures 1 and 4 discrepancies in the entry and exit weights indicate the possibility of theft, as do discrepancies in the number of items taken into the changing room.

The system of Figure 5 could of course be adapted to use a bar code reader as shown and described in relation to Figures 3 and 4.

Whilst each of the systems of Figures 1 and 5 operate by placing goods or a basket on entry scales, these scales could be replaced by a free standing hanging unit as shown in Figure 4. In this arrangement items to be weighed are either hung on rail member or placed in a bowl or basket on the base portion. When goods are placed on the rail, the load cell in the base weighs them and sends a signal indicative of the weight to the relevant processor. This arrangement is advantageous when the goods to be weighed are bulky and' or are on hangers.

Each of the fitting/changing room systems shown in Figures 1 , 4 and 5 may additionally include a facility to allow customers to take additional items into the changing room. This happens when, for example, a customer originally takes a size 10 dress into the changing room but subsequently finds out that they need a size 12. In order to accommodate this, the system processor is adapted to provide an "addition" option, which can be selected by the sales assistant by activating a selected button on the processor keyboard or alternatively by selecting the option from a menu on the monitor. In order to use this facility, the customer gives their token to the sales assistant, who then leaves the changing room to find the alternative size. When the correct size is found, the sales assistant scans the customer token, either using the magnetic card reader or bar code reader as appropriate. The new item of clothing is then weighed and its weight is added to the entry weight of the goods originally taken into the changing room. The new weight is stored in the appropriate memory, for example in the processor memory and/or on the card. When the customer subsequently leaves the changing room, the goods originally taken into the changing room, together with the additional item are weighed and the weight is compared with the new weight that was stored. The following steps taken are as previously described.

Each of the fitting/changing room systems shown in Figures 1, 4 and 5 may additionally be connected to a closed circuit television control room, typically in the store in question. In this arrangement, when a discrepancy between the entry and exit weights of the goods is detected a signal would be sent to the control room thereby to alert security personnel to the possibility of an attempted theft.

An advantage of the systems of Figures 1 , 4 and 5 is that when a customer enters the fitting/changing room, the shop assistant is only required to insert the customer card into the card reader or use the bar code reader to read a bar code from a token or card and subsequently remove it when the entry weight is measured and stored. No further steps are required until the customer leaves the room, when the assistant again merely has to insert the card into the card reader and subsequently remove it therefrom, or alternatively merely read the bar code on the card using a bar code reader. All other steps are automatically carried out. This means that minimal training is required to instruct the shop assistant in how to use the system. In shops where large numbers of staff are part time and/or temporary this is advantageous.

In any of the examples described above, a particular fitting/changing cubicle in the fitting/changing area may be associated with the customer card or token or other identification means, so that the customer can be directed to a particular fitting/changing room. An advantage of this is that it speeds up throughput, reduces waiting times for customers queuing to get into the fitting/changing room and reduces congestion.

Although each of the systems described herein is operated by a sales assistant, the systems could equally be un-manned. In this case, a barrier system may be provided having barriers at the entrance and exit to the fitting/changing room. The entrance barrier would be arranged to open to allow a customer to enter, once the goods were weighed and the entry weight stored. When the customer wished to leave, the exit weight of the goods would be weighed and compared with the weight of the goods on entry. If the entry and exit weights of the goods were substantially the same, to within a pre-determined tolerance, the exit barrier would be opened to allow a customer to exit the changing room. If there were a discrepancy between the entry and exit weights of the goods then the system would generate an alarm and, typically, assistance would be sought from a member of the store staff. Of course, the barrier system may be provided with over-ride means for opening the barriers, for example in the event of a store emergency such as a fire. An advantage of the present invention is that the system is very quick and easy to use. This avoids congestion in the fitting/changing room area and helps reduce queuing so avoiding the situation where a store would feel compelled to shut down its security system to prevent overcrowding. In addition, the system is accurate and reliable.

Claims

1. A fitting/changing room security system comprising: weighing means for weighing goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for storing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

2. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the weighing means is provided at a combined entry/exit point for the fitting/changing room for weighing goods taken into and out of the fitting/changing room.

3. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the weighing means comprises a first means for weighing the goods taken into the fitting/changing room, the first means being provided at an entrance to the changing/fitting room, and second weighing means for weighing the goods taken from the fitting/changing room, the second weighing means being provided at an exit of the fitting/changing room.

4. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weighing means comprises an electronic weigh scale transducer.

5. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the weighing means comprises a weigh pan.

6. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weighing means includes a weighing arm that is adapted to allow clothes to be hung thereon, thereby to allow the clothes to be weighed.

7. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the means for storing the weight of the goods taken into the changing/fitting room comprises a card or token, preferably, that can be read by a card reader.

8. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the card or token is magnetic and the card reader is a magnetic card reader.

9. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the means for storing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room is provided in a memory, preferably in a personal computer or a computer network.

10. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 9. wherein the a card or token is provided with a unique marking which is stored with the weight of the goods taken into the changing/fitting room.

11. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 9. wherein the unique marking is a bar code.

12. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the means for comparing comprises a processor.

13. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the processor is able to communicate with the means for weighing so that the weights of the goods placed thereon can be automatically transmitted to the processor.

14. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of claims 1 1 to 13, when dependent on any one of claims 8 or 9 or 10, wherein the processor is able to communicate with the card reader so that information is passed between the processor and the card reader.

15. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a clock or timer is provided for monitoring the time at which a customer enters and subsequently leaves the fitting changing room.

16. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 15, wherein means are provided for storing the time at which the customer enters the fitting/changing room.

17. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 15 or 16. wherein means are provided for comparing the entry and exit times of the customer thereby to provide an indication of how much time the customer spent in the changing rooms.

18. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 17, wherein means are provided for indicating when a customer has been in a fitting/changing room for longer than a pre-determined time.

19. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the predetermined time is twenty minutes.

20. A fitting/changing room comprising a fitting/changing area having an entrance and an exit and a fitting/changing room security system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

21. A fitting/changing room as claimed in claim 20, wherein the entrance and the exit are one and the same.

22. A fitting/changing room as claimed in claim 20, wherein the entrance and the exit are separate.

23. A method of monitoring goods taken into a fitting/changing room comprising: weighing goods taken into the fitting/changing room; storing the weight of the goods taken in; weighing goods being taken from the fitting/changing room, and comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken from the fitting/changing room.

24. A method as claimed in any one of claims 23, comprising storing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room in a memory.

25. A method as claimed in claim 24, comprising storing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room on a card or token.

26. A method as claimed in claim 25, wherein the card is a magnetic card.

27. A method as claimed in claim 24, wherein the memory is in a personal computer or a computer network.

28. A method as claimed in claim 26 or claim 27, comprising storing the entry weight of the goods in memory together with a unique code that is associated with a card or token that is to be given to the customer.

29. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the unique code is a bar code.

30. A method as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 29, comprising comparing the weights of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken from the fitting/changing using a processor.

31. A method as claimed in claim 30, comprising transmitting automatically the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to the processor.

32. A method as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, comprising transmitting automatically the exit weight of the goods to the processor.

33. A method as claimed in claim 30 or claim 3 1 or claim 32, comprising transmitting the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room from the processor to a card writer and writing the weight of the goods onto a card or token that is to be given to a customer.

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34. A method as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 33, involving monitoring how long a customer spends in a fitting/changing room.

35. A fitting/changing room security system comprising: 0 timing means for timing when a customer takes goods into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for storing a signal indicative of the time at which the customer entered the fitting/changing room, and means for determining the time spent by the customer in the 5 fitting/changing room.

36. A fitting/changing room security system as claimed in claim 33, wherein the timing means comprises a clock.

0 37. A computer program for use in a fitting/changing room security system, the computer program comprising: means for receiving from weighing means weights of goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for causing the weight of the goods taken into the 5 fitting/changing room to be stored, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

38. A computer program as claimed in claim 37, wherein the means for causing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored comprises means for sending a signal to a card writer to cause the card writer to write the weight of the goods into a card that is to be taken by the customer into the changing/fitting room.

39. A data storage carrier that contains a computer program for use in a fitting/changing room security system, the computer program comprising: means for receiving from weighing means weights of goods taken into and out of a fitting/changing room; means for causing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored, and means for comparing the weight of the goods taken into the fitting changing room with the weight of the goods taken therefrom.

40. A data storage carrier as claimed in claim 39, wherein the means for causing a weight of the goods taken into the fitting/changing room to be stored comprises means for sending a signal to a card writer to cause the card writer to write the weight of the goods onto a card that is to be taken by the customer into the changing/fitting room.

41. A fitting/changing room security system substantially as specifically described hereinbefore with reference to the accompanying drawings and as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2.

42. A method of monitoring goods taken into a fitting/changing room substantially as specifically described hereinbefore with reference to the accompanying drawings.