SICK AG Improves Efficiency in Baggage Handling Operations
SICK AG is seizing the opportunity that Munich exhibition inter airport Europe 2015 is affording to showcase its camera technology for airports. One example is the matrix camera-based Lector®654 System. It offers improved flexibility.
Efficiency in baggage handling operations with Lector®654 System
SICK's exhibit is a track and trace system for automatic reading of IATA luggage tags in baggage handling systems. Designed as a hybrid solution, it is a prime example of two types of technology – laser scanners and cameras – working in perfect harmony. Two SICK CLV laser scanners and a Lector®654 Flex camera reliably identify and decode the IATA bar code used in the baggage transportation system.
Laser scanners represent tried-and-tested technology that has been in use for a number of years now, and are the standard equipment for reading IATA luggage tags. The system also incorporates matrix cameras, whose high resolution and extensive depth of field are standout features. This improves the system's overall reading performance, particularly in cases where bar codes are dirty or damaged.
Images captured by the cameras can also be used for downstream processes, including optical character recognition and video coding, making it possible where necessary to process the plain text printed on the luggage tag. With information such as the flight number and airport code, the images that the cameras provide result in significant improvements in the baggage transportation process – particularly in cases where the baggage source message (BSM) is missing.
As a result, this use of camera technology reduces the need for manual baggage post-processing and allows baggage to be transferred more quickly. Both types of technology communicate with the baggage handling system controller via a single interface. Integrating the camera technology into existing laser scanner systems is also a possibility.
