Faster pass the parcel
August 1st 2007

Camera-based reading systems are the future, according to camera-based reader specialist, Vitronic. The company, which has devised a 5,000 parcel per hour sortation system for Aspray Transport, claims read rates previously unobtainable with laser scanners are now available to those for whom speed and accuracy are paramount

Automated parcel sorting is a proven means of increasing productivity, speed and efficiency in a busy warehouse or post depot. As parcels travel along powered conveyors, their labels are read by a high speed reader that instructs the sorter to send the parcel to a specific destination. For over 30 years, laser scanning technology has been used to read labels. However, developing technology in the form of camera based systems is helping users achieve previously impossible levels of efficiency.

High speed parcel sortation is all about read rates. If the label can't be read or is incorrectly read, manual intervention is required and this slows things down. Laser based scanning systems rely on bar codes.

A sequence of lines or dots is printed alongside the human readable information for the scanner to read. However, laser scanners have trouble reading damaged, poor quality, dirty or marked codes, resulting in failure rates of up to 6%. Lasers are also limited to barcodes and cannot interpret hand written or human readable address information.

Camera based readers use a fast auto focus compact, linescan camera or cameras to capture a high-resolution, photographic image of the label. This is then interpreted using sophisticated digital imaging techniques, combined with optimised character recognition software. What this means is that a camera system can read a label that is positioned on any face of the parcel, dirty, damaged or even written by hand. The system will even recognise codes and characters behind uneven, soiled and reflective plastic.

In the unlikely event that the label can't be read, its image is sent to a video coding terminal where it can be manually input. As the image appears at the terminal 300 milliseconds after it is captured, address details can be input in time for the sorter to process the parcel and send it to its correct destination. Camera systems do not contain moving parts and are therefore durable and well suited for a warehouse environment.

Camera systems can be configured to read labels anywhere on the front, back, top, bottom or sides of a parcel, with the label being in any orientation on these faces. As the system captures the images, it automatically stores and logs them in a database, cutting out paperwork and providing a highly accurate data trail. This improves efficiency and decreases manual intervention still further. All this contributes to a swift, sleek parcel sorting process.

Vitronic has supplied parcel recognition camera systems for warehousing and logistics for nearly ten years and has become one of the most reputable companies in the industry. It incorporates state-of-the-art technology to provide sophisticated, reliable solutions, supplied from its own in house hardware and software development departments.

Aspray Transport required a parcel sortation system to improve the speed, productivity and efficiency of its busy warehouse. Vitronic designed and installed a three camera system that reads five sides of the parcel, complete with a video coding terminal. It handles 5,000 parcels per hour, at a sorting speed of 2.2 metres per second.

"Vitronic provided an outstanding product, plus a seamless service and installation," says Markus Newport, IT manager at Aspray Transport. "The investment has meant great benefits to our business and our customers." This developing technology has pushed the boundaries of parcel scanning and now presents businesses with a quicker, more effective alternative. With the laser scanner market reaching maturity, and its sales declining, Vitronic believes cameras are the future. For further information, just call the number below.

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