In some implementations, data from other input devices may be used to assist in determining the identity of items picked and/or placed in inventory locations. Here’s how the patent filing describes the confluence of sensor data. (Amazon Image via YouTube)Īmazon says in its online FAQ and video that it’s using technologies including sensor fusion, which brings together data from different sensors to increase the reliability and accuracy of the results. Amazon’s system automatically detects when a shopper picks up an item, and adds it to a virtual cart. For example, if the user historically has only picked/purchased ketchup, that information may be used to confirm that the user has likely picked ketchup from the inventory location. The patent filing notes that the system could use a shopper’s past purchase history to help identify an item when it’s picked up.įor example, if the inventory management system cannot determine if the picked item is a bottle of ketchup or a bottle of mustard, the inventory management system may consider past purchase history and/or what items the user has already picked from other inventory locations. The exit of the user will be detected and, as the user passes through the exit (transition area), the user, without having to stop or otherwise be delayed, will automatically be charged a fee for the items (the items are transitioned to the user).

(Amazon Photo Via YouTube)įor example, if the user is purchasing items from a retail location, rather than the user having to stop and “check out” with a cashier, teller or automated check station, because the picked items are already known and identified on an item identifier list associated with the user, the user may simply exit the retail location with the items. At the new Amazon Go store in Seattle, coming early 2017, shoppers use their smartphone to buzz in and out of the store. When customers exit the store through a “transition area,” the system senses that they’re leaving, adds up the items and charges their Amazon account. The system is logging the items as the shopper goes along, which eliminates the need to go through a traditional check-out line. Those patent filings describe a system that uses technology including RFID to detect when a shopper takes an item from the shelf, and then syncs the data to a handheld device.

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