Registers – Systems controlled by data bearing records
Reexamination Certificate
1999-12-21
2001-02-20
Frech, Karl D. (Department: 2876)
Registers
Systems controlled by data bearing records
C235S383000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06189784
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The field of the present invention relates to a package tracking and/or sorting system using a barcode scanning system, or more particularly to the use of a fixed barcode scanning system for package tracking and/or sorting in the commercial and industrial market. This system would typically be found in a warehouse-like environment, where parcels are routed for consolidation or distribution. The scanning system is operator-assisted and designed to collect barcode information from each individual parcel, provide feedback to the operator which directs their next operation, and communicate tracking and routing information with a host computer system.
There are several methods currently in use for tracking and sorting parcels in the commercial and industrial industry. One method is a handheld scanning device that is electrically cabled to a portable data terminal (PDT). Each operator wears a PDT and carries with them and a scanning device. The operator is required to scan the parcel with one hand, then set the scanning device down, and perform the next operation. Then the tracking information is sent to, and collected in, the PDT. This information is then up-loaded to a host computer system when the PDT is deposited in a docking station, which typically occurs at the end of a shift. Also, information which the host has down-loaded into the PDT for sorting purposes can only happen when the terminal is docked. Therefore, an operator's PDT may not contain updated information required to correctly sort the parcels. Moreover, these systems do not have any provisions to let the operator know that the parcel has been sorted into the correct container for distribution or consolidation. Moreover, these systems may have reliability problems because of the abusive environment in which they operate and the high level of handling that is required to use them. Also, parcel through-put tends to be low, due to the scanning performance of the scanning device and the rate that the operator can move parcels, recognizing that the operator must handle the scanning device.
Another method which is employed comprises an automated scanning system in which a high performance scanning device is mounted above a parcel transport system, often a conveyer belt or system of belts. The scanning system collects the tracking information, reports it to the host computer system and automatically routes the parcel through a complex series of diverters. By the time the operator loads the parcel into a destination container, the tracking information has already been collected and reported to the host. This system is very capital intensive, and requires a good deal of maintenance. Moreover, the system lacks the flexibility often required for system reconfiguration or parcel re-routing based on changes in distribution plans.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to providing a system and method which overcomes disadvantages of the devices mentioned above, and provides other competitive functions and features. The scanning system is comprised of a high performance data reader or barcode scanner, a real time system control computer, user interface devices and preferably a superstructure to which all hardware is attached. The scanning system is intended to be operator-assisted and is preferably mounted to the superstructure providing hands-free scanning operation at each work station. The system may also include a real-time communication link with the host computer system for transferring information scanned from the parcels to the memory in the host computer system to update tracking information stored therein or for configuring the scanning system with up-to-the minute routing. The system may be networked to the host directly or via a wireless link. The scanning system may optionally be equipped with a scale system to weigh each parcel to assure compliance to specifications.
Another option of the system is an addition of a feedback system to error-proof the sorting operation whereby the scanning system is configured with a sensing device on each of the bins to which a parcel may be sorted. Based on the tracking information read from the barcode label and the routing information provided by the host computer system, the scanning system instructs the operator to place the parcel in a particular bin. The sensing device on the bin determines if the parcel was placed into the correct bin. If a parcel is placed in the wrong bin, the operator is instructed to remove the parcel and re-sort it. Other options of the system are the functions available through the user interface devices, key pad and multi-line display. In such a system, the operator can input his ID number, configure the system for operation, modify downloaded host configuration information, check system performance, or perform system maintenance and system diagnostic checks.
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Kortt Robert F.
Peavey Brian D.
Tamburrini Thomas E.
Williams Kevin J.
Frech Karl D.
Lyon & Lyon LLP
PSC Scanning Inc.
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