subject: How To: Process Parcels Efficiently In Warehouses & Distribution Centres [print this page] Used in automated parcel sorting, scanning tunnels conveniently integrate multiple functions to capture detailed package related data, which allows companies to reduce costs, increase efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.
Parcels flow into the tunnel on a conveyor or sorter, where different units automatically identify, measure and label them. Users can achieve high levels of automation, reducing the need for manual handling. Scanning tunnels are convenient, cost effective and increasingly popular with post, mail order and distribution companies. Available in modular form, they are flexible and users can select features specific to their operational requirements.
In a scanning tunnel, identifying addresses and codes correctly is essential. This ensures the quick, accurate routing of parcels and means individual items are traceable. This leads to a speedy, effective service and allows customers to check the status of their orders at any time. Traditionally, scanning tunnels have relied on laser barcode scanners to identify parcels, but recently introduced camera technology is proving highly advantageous.
Camera-based identification systems
Camera based systems operate up to thirty times faster than laser scanners and produce excellent read rates. High-resolution, line-scan cameras capture photographic images of parcel labels. The system interprets these images using powerful digital imaging techniques, computer algorithms and optical character recognition (OCR) software.
Unlike laser scanners, camera based systems identify labels that are dirty, damaged or even written by hand. Cameras even recognise customer specific codes and characters behind soiled, uneven or reflective plastic. In scanning tunnels, multiple cameras can be set up with LED illumination to read all six sides of a parcel.
Video coding
Video coding is a facility that allows the manual input of non-readable labels. When used in conjunction with a camera based recognition system, identification rates approaching 100% are achievable. The system sends images of incomplete or unidentifiable addresses or sort codes to video coding stations via a quick, intelligent network. Here, operators enter the information.
Scanning tunnels support two types of video coding. Online video coding means the information is input immediately. As the image arrives at the terminal in less than 300ms after it is captured, address details can be entered in time for the sorter to process the parcel and send it to its correct destination. Offline video coding is where the images are stored and the data input later.
Automatic volume measurement
Scanning tunnels often incorporate volume-measuring devices, which use lasers to determine parcel dimensions. Used to automate invoicing, this data reduces labour costs and speeds up dispatches. Volume measuring allows the system to calculate the smallest possible cube that will enclose an item, ensuring efficient use of transit space during vehicle loading.
In-motion weighing
Used in scanning tunnels to weigh parcels, in-motion scales provide data that helps automate invoicing. The process does not interrupt material flow or limit throughput speed. Dual scale arrangements, which combine two weighing surfaces, allow the processing of a wider array of parcel lengths while maintaining a high throughput.
Data storage units
Equipping scanning tunnels with data storage units allows the swift, simple resolution of demanding customer inquiries. Accumulated data such as volume, weight and address information is available for immediate recall and stored images prove shipping times and product condition. The information is safe, secure and cannot be manipulated, which reassures users and their customers.
Clear spot detection
Another advantage of using cameras in scanning tunnels is clear spot detection. The system checks the captured image for clear areas on the parcel and sends the co-ordinates to an automated labelling device. It ensures new labels do not obscure existing information. Clear spot detection is useful in applications where users wish to apply a new label to their parcels prior to dispatch.
Interface with sorter control systems
Scanning tunnels interface easily with a wide range of sorter control systems. This makes them versatile and suitable for integration into existing applications. Built in modems allow remote diagnostics for faultfinding and software downloads should updates be required.
The last few years has seen hundreds of scanning tunnels sold to warehouses, parcel and mail processors worldwide. They reduce costs, increase efficiency and improve service levels. Scanning tunnels are a realistic, cost effective option.
by: Malcolm Smith
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