WO2008067336A2 - Système de tri et d'extraction pour systèmes de gestion d'articles et procédés associés - Google Patents

Système de tri et d'extraction pour systèmes de gestion d'articles et procédés associés Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008067336A2
WO2008067336A2 PCT/US2007/085679 US2007085679W WO2008067336A2 WO 2008067336 A2 WO2008067336 A2 WO 2008067336A2 US 2007085679 W US2007085679 W US 2007085679W WO 2008067336 A2 WO2008067336 A2 WO 2008067336A2
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
items
item
retrieved
mail
physical
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Application number
PCT/US2007/085679
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English (en)
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WO2008067336A3 (fr
Inventor
Michael D. Miles
Original Assignee
Earth Class Mail Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
Application filed by Earth Class Mail Corporation filed Critical Earth Class Mail Corporation
Publication of WO2008067336A2 publication Critical patent/WO2008067336A2/fr
Publication of WO2008067336A3 publication Critical patent/WO2008067336A3/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/10—Office automation; Time management
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q50/00—Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
    • G06Q50/60—Business processes related to postal services

Definitions

  • Embodiments of the present invention relate to item management systems and associated methods, including item sortation and extraction systems.
  • Another problem with paper documents is that they typically require a person reviewing the documents to be physically located with the documents. For example, if someone has more than one residence, has more than one office, and/or spends a significant amount of time traveling, it can be difficult to keep track of the mail or other documents that get delivered to various locations. This problem is often solved by tasking someone at each of the various locations to pickup, review, and/or forward the mail or other documents delivered to the associated location. This solution can be inefficient and costly, and in some cases can delay the receipt of time sensitive information.
  • sortation lines to handle the various sizes of items.
  • one sortation line handles parcels
  • another sortation line handles express and/or priority mail
  • another sortation line handles flats
  • another sortation line handles letters and/or postcards.
  • the sorted items are typically provided separately in large collections to a postal carrier, and the postal carrier, while at the delivery location, must pull from the separate collections of parcels, express or priority mail, flats and letters/postcards for each addressee.
  • This manual casing and collection at the point of delivery is labor intensive and subject to human error.
  • manual delivery of the physical items to each addressee's location is very labor intensive, and expensive.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic flow chart showing an item management process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a partially schematic illustration of an item with an identification tag in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a partially schematic illustration of an item management system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram that illustrates a computing environment suitable for implementing or aiding various portions of item management processes in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a computer display through which a user can interface/interact with an item management process that includes a remote document process in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 illustrates another computer display through which a user can interface/interact with an item management process that includes a remote document process in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic flow chart showing a one-touch induction process in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 8 is a schematic flow chart showing a two-touch induction process in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 9 is a partially schematic illustration of a storage center of the item management system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 10 is an isometric illustration of an individual storage rack of a storage center configured to store multiple different types of containers that contain one or more documents in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • Figures 11-13 are isometric illustrations of a rack with a robotic manipulator and portions of the rack used to insert containers that contain one or more documents into the rack, remove the containers from the rack, and manipulate the containers relative to the rack in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 14 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a storage center with containers attached to one or more conveyor systems in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 15 is an isometric illustration of a chute system used to transfer items in the storage center shown in Figure 14 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 16 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a storage center with a chute system for transferring containers between one portion of the storage center and another in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 17 is a schematic flow chart showing a scanning process performed at a processing center in an item management system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 18 is an isometric illustration of a manual induction station in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 19 is an isometric illustration of a collection of items for a selected addressee shown removed from the storage center in a selected progressive size sequence.
  • Figure 20 is an isometric illustration of a collection of items for a plurality of addressees, the items being shown removed from the storage center and the items for each addressee being separated by separator cards.
  • Figure 21 is an enlarged front elevational view of a separator card in accordance with one embodiment.
  • Figure 22 is an isometric schematic illustration of an automated kiosk system for delivery of sorted items to an identified recipient.
  • the present invention is directed generally toward item management systems and associated methods. As shown in Figure 1 , selected aspects of the systems are directed toward an item management process 100 that includes receiving physical items (process portion 102), inducting the items, including imaging the items into the item management system (process portion 104), electronically storing image data related to each item (process portion 105), and storing the physical items in a selected and identified location (process portion 106).
  • the items can include any physical item including a single piece of paper, an envelope, a piece of mail, a magazine, a group of documents (e.g., a letter with multiple pages), CD or DVD, a group of CD/DVDs, a package, a book and/or other physical items.
  • the items have non-uniform shapes and sizes relative to each other.
  • inducting the item can include gathering information about the item, assigning or applying a unique identifier (e.g., a code, tag, a marking, or other identification), scanning or imaging at least a portion of the item, and/or preparing the item for storage.
  • Applying the identifier can include any identification arrangement including physically configuring the item for identification or attaching a material to the item. For example, as shown in certain embodiments a piece of paper can have symbols or a code printed onto the paper or physically pressed or crimped into the paper itself so that the paper can later be identified.
  • FIG. 2 is a partially schematic illustration of an item 201 with an identifier 299 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • the item 201 includes packaging 295 (e.g., an envelope or pouch) and content 294 (e.g., documents inside of the packaging).
  • packaging 295 e.g., an envelope or pouch
  • content 294 e.g., documents inside of the packaging.
  • the item 201 can have other arrangements and/or the identifier can be applied to other portions of the item 201.
  • retrieving and processing the item (process portion 110) after induction and storage can include retrieving the items for an addressee in a selected order, such as based upon a progressive item-size order, and combining the retrieved items with one or more separator cards, and sending the physical item to a recipient or user (e.g., an entity including a person and/or organization remote from the storage center), or forwarding the physical item to another remote entity or location.
  • a recipient or user e.g., an entity including a person and/or organization remote from the storage center
  • the processing can also include scanning one or more portions of the item to provide a visual image of the item's portion to a remote recipient, archiving the item, shredding the item, disposing of the item, and/or recycling the item.
  • at least some of the items that have been processed can be returned to storage (process portion 106).
  • the item management process can also include receiving user input from a remote location and/or sending output to the remote user (process portion 112). Additionally, in selected embodiments the item management process can include receiving operator input and/or sending output to the operator (process portion 114). In various embodiments, the operator can be on-site at the item management center or at a remote location.
  • the item is a piece of mail
  • all or a portion of the envelope is scanned during induction, and that image of the envelope can be electronically sent to a remote user, such as via a computer network.
  • the remote user can then provide instructions on how the piece of mail should be processed.
  • a remote user can set up rules for how certain items should be handled or processed in the item management process.
  • the operator e.g., an entity
  • the operator can receive information regarding selected items (e.g., items that are difficult to identify during the induction process) and provide input on how to handle the selected item in the item management process.
  • the item management process can also include one or more monitoring processes that can be used to monitor substantially all or various portions of the item management process (process portion 116).
  • various aspects of the invention can be automated and/or computer controlled.
  • the item management process 100 can be used to accomplish various tasks.
  • various aspects of the invention allow a non-uniform item to be stored in a uniform structure.
  • items having non-homogeneous physical characteristics or dimensions e.g., outer shapes and sizes
  • to be stored in carriers or rack locations having substantially homogeneous dimensions e.g., outer shapes and sizes.
  • the uniform structures (e.g., carriers) containing the items can be manipulated manually or automatically during selected process steps.
  • aspects can allow the storage and/or retrieval of specifically identified and discrete items in a specific sequence. Still other aspects of the invention can allow the physical items to be received at one location, remotely reviewed, and/or processed in accordance with instructions provided by a remote user or an operator.
  • Various embodiments of the item management process 100 can be used to form various systems including document control or storage systems and/or other item control systems (e.g., CD/DVD data storage systems, CD/DVD rental services, book lending services and/or other goods-related systems and services).
  • the item management process 100 can also be used in a remote mail service in accordance with instructions from the remote user.
  • a remote mail service can allow a user to have mail (e.g., U.S. Postal mail and/or internal company mail) delivered to a specified location remote from the user's location, the mail can go through the receiving and induction process, and the remote user can then review an image of at least a portion of each mail item (e.g., the envelope or package), such as over the internet or other computer network.
  • the remote user can provide instructions via the computer network on how the mail should be processed at the mail processing location.
  • the user can have the entire mail item (e.g., an envelope and its contents) scanned or otherwise imaged, and the image sent to the remote user via the computer network for review.
  • the user can provide instructions to have the mail item sent to another remote entity or location, recycled, destroyed, shredded, or archived.
  • the remote user can set up rules or instructions in advance via a user interface available over the network so that certain mail items are automatically processed in accordance with the instructions when they are received and inducted into the system at the mail processing location.
  • FIG 3 is a partially schematic illustration of an item management system 300 in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • the item management system 300 located remote from the user can receive physical items 301 at a receiving station 302.
  • the receiving station 302 can have a cache C for holding items 301 until each of the items can complete the receiving process and/or the item can be moved to an induction center 306.
  • the induction center 306 can perform the induction process described above. Additionally, after at least a portion of the item is imaged during the induction process, the image of the item and/or at least a portion of the information gathered about the item can be sent to a remote user via the computer network and presented to the remote user via the user interface 312.
  • the remote user can also provide input, such as instructions, to the item management system 300 via the user interface 312, for example, to provide instruction for processing each item.
  • the item management system 300 includes an operator interface 314 through which an on-site or remote operator can receive output (e.g., information) from the item management system 300 and through which the operator can provide input (instructions) to the item management system 300 for processing the item or performing other related tasks.
  • the operator can receive output and provide input via a network and the operator interface.
  • the induction process includes receiving the item, identifying one or more markings (e.g., an address, symbology, a code, or other information on the item), and analyzing the markings to determine which remote user(s) is/are associated with the particular item. For example, in a document management system there may be multiple remote users or entities associated with a single item. In one embodiment, an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) process is used to "read" the marking on the item so the item can be associated with the proper remote user(s). Other embodiments can use other systems, such as bar code systems, symbol-reading systems, radio frequency identification systems, or other identification systems to accurately determine which remote user(s) is/are associated with the item. Accordingly, each item can be processed in accordance with the instructions from the correct remote user(s), as discussed in greater detail below.
  • OCR Optical Character Recognition
  • the physical item can be transferred to a storage center 306.
  • the location of each item in the storage center and to/from the storage center is tracked via the identifier on each item.
  • the storage center 306 can store the item so that the item can be quickly and accurately identified, stored, moved, and/or retrieved because the location of each item is always known by using the identifier to track the exact location of the item (e.g., via a computing system) in the storage center.
  • the identifier may be a bar code, and each time the item is moved, the bar code is scanned and its location is correlated with other bar codes associated with each location in the storage center.
  • the storage center can be configured to store each nonuniform item in a uniform structure.
  • the item and the uniform structure are then moved together as a unit within the storage center.
  • each mail item can be placed in a cassette or other type of storage container.
  • the outer portions of the cassettes are uniform in shape and size so that they can be manipulated and stored in any one of multiple positions in a rack system or other storage structure, as discussed in greater detail below.
  • the cassettes and/or the rack system can have unique identifying features to aid in tracking and retrieving a particular cassette and its item at a later time for further processing.
  • the cassette and storage areas in the rack system each have unique identifiers.
  • the identifier on an item can be matched or otherwise associated with an identifier on a cassette, and the identifier on the cassette is matched or otherwise associated with the identifier of the storage area in the rack system.
  • the cassette 1 identifier is re-associated with the identifier at the new location. Accordingly, the location of each item in the system is always tracked, known, and the item can be quickly retrieved from the storage center 306 for processing at any time.
  • the storage process can include re-arranging or organizing items in the rack system after they have been stored to expedite the retrieval process.
  • various mail items in their respective cassettes when used can be re-arranged or organized in a rack system (e.g., moved from one location in the rack system to another) so that the item, which are likely to retrieved at the same time are physically proximate to each other.
  • various transport mechanisms e.g., conveyor systems
  • one or more robotic manipulators RM can be used to move the items throughout the storage center, for example, during initial storage, re-storage (e.g., an item returned after processing), organization, and/or retrieval.
  • an item can move to a processing center 310.
  • the item can undergo various types of processing, including scanning or imaging (e.g., scanning the entire content of the item for transmission to the remote user or other entity via the computer network), preparing the item for physical shipment to the remote user or other entity, destroying the item, recycling the item, and/or archiving the item.
  • scanning or imaging e.g., scanning the entire content of the item for transmission to the remote user or other entity via the computer network
  • preparing the item for physical shipment to the remote user or other entity destroying the item, recycling the item, and/or archiving the item.
  • the remaining items can be returned to the storage center.
  • an item being archived or scanned during processing might be returned to the storage center 306 after the processing is complete.
  • archived items can be stored in a designated portion of the storage center 306, because those archived items are not expected to be accessed in the near term.
  • processing can simply include the item moving through the processing station.
  • multiple items are removed from the rack system in a group and as the group of items move through the processing center 310, while other items are scanned, archived, sent out of the system, and/or destroyed, some of the items are simply returned to storage in a selected location in the rack system.
  • the specific location of each item is tracked via its identifier as the item moves within the processing center 310 or the storage center 306.
  • items move to the processing center 310 after induction without passing through the storage center 306.
  • the remote user or the operator can set up rules in advance such that certain items identified during the induction process are sent directly to processing and recycled, queued for disposal, sent to the remote user, or another entity.
  • the items 301 can be moved throughout the item management system 300 (e.g., between the various stations) via transport mechanisms T and/or manual labor.
  • the transport mechanisms T can have various transport elements including conveyors, carts, robotic manipulators, carriers or pallets, cassettes and/or storage units.
  • the transport mechanisms T can be manually operated, partially automated, or fully automated.
  • all or a portion of the transport mechanisms T can be computer controlled.
  • Any of the various stations in the item management system 300 can also include one or more transport mechanisms T as needed for each station, for example, one or more robotic manipulators that interact with carriers on an adjacent conveyor system.
  • any of the various stations in the item management system 300 and/or portions of the transport mechanism T can also include a cache C, similar to that discussed above with reference to the receiving station 302 to temporarily hold the items until they can be further processed.
  • the caches C can also include unique identifiers that can be associated with the identifier of each item to accurately track the location of each item. It is understood, that in certain embodiments various elements of each of the various centers in the item management system can physically overlap.
  • the item management system 300 can also include a monitoring arrangement or monitoring system 316 to monitor various portions of the item management system 300 or item management process.
  • the monitoring system 316 can provide tracking, observation, and location information of the items while they are in the item monitoring system 300.
  • the monitoring system 316 can be completely manually operated, partially automated, or fully automated.
  • at least a portion of the monitoring system 316 can be computer implemented and/or computer aided.
  • the monitoring system 316 can include a video camera or video system to visually record the items in various portions of the item management system 300 or item management process.
  • the system can include other electronic monitoring devices, for example, still cameras, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) receivers/readers, and barcode reading devices. Additionally, in some embodiments monitoring can be accomplished remotely. For example, when using a video system to monitor a portion of the item management process, the visual images can be sent via a network to a remote location where the images can be stored and/or reviewed.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identification
  • the information collected by the monitoring system 316 can be useful for many purposes. For example, in certain embodiments the monitoring system 316 can provide information in the event an item does not arrive at its intended location or if the item is a sealed pouch containing confidential information the monitoring system can provide an indication that the contents may have been accessed by unauthorized observers. In selected embodiments, a portion of the information collected by the monitoring system 316 can be provided to the owner, recipient, or other authorized entity associated with a specific item to provide a record of the events that transpired during the handling of the specific item. In other embodiments, information collected by the monitoring system 316 can be examined by an operator and the operator can provide input to the system via the operator interface 314 based on the information. For example, in certain situations, an operator can provide input to correct a problem that is observed via the monitoring system 316. The monitoring system 316 can also act as a security system that monitors the on-site operations and/or operators as items are moved through and between various centers.
  • FIG 4 is a block diagram that illustrates a computing environment suitable for implementing or aiding various portions of item management processes in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
  • the computing environment 480 can be operably coupled to, or integral with, at least a portion of an item management system 400, similar to the item management system described above with reference to Figure 3.
  • the computing environment 480 can include a computing or computer system 482 that can be operably connected or coupled to a display 484 and one or more input devices, for example, a keyboard 486a and a pointing device 486b (e.g., a mouse). Additionally, the computer system 482 can communicate with one or more storage devices (e.g., a hard drive 488 with one or more databases) and one or more devices 490 for reading other types of computer readable mediums (e.g., devices for reading disks 491).
  • storage devices e.g., a hard drive 488 with one or more databases
  • devices 490 for reading other types of computer readable mediums (e.g., devices for reading
  • the computer system 482 can also communicate via a network 492 (e.g., the Internet) with other devices or systems.
  • a network 492 e.g., the Internet
  • the computer system 482 can communicate with a user computer system 493, a user database 494, an operator computer system 495, and/or an operator database 496 via the network 492.
  • the computing environment 480 can have other arrangements, including more, fewer, and/or different components.
  • the computing device or environment on which the system is implemented may include a central processing unit, memory, additional input devices (e.g., keyboard, pointing devices, and/or other sensors), other output devices (e.g., display devices), and other storage devices (e.g., disk drives).
  • the memory and storage devices can include computer-readable media that may contain instructions that implement the system.
  • the data structures and message structures may be stored or transmitted via a data transmission medium, such as a signal on a communication link.
  • Various communication links may be used, such as the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, a point-to- point dial-up connection, a cell phone network, and so on.
  • Portions of the item management system may be implemented in various operating environments that include personal computers, server computers, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, programmable consumer electronics, digital cameras, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, and so on.
  • the computer systems can include cell phones, personal digital assistants, smart phones, personal computers, programmable consumer electronics, digital cameras, and so on.
  • program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and so on that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.
  • functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a computer display 500 through which a user can interface/interact with an item management process that includes a remote mail process in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • the user interface display 500 is accessed through a network (e.g., the internet).
  • the display can include an inbox 510, multiple links 511 to various other displays associated with the mail process, and other information 526.
  • the inbox includes an image section 512, a physical data section 514, a status section 516, and an action section 518.
  • the image section 512 can include images of portions of the items that have been inducted into the item management process at the remote facility.
  • the physical data section 514 can include physical data about the item, including size, weight, the type of mail (e.g., first class or bulk postage), the name of the entity sending the mail, the estimated number of pages (e.g., based on size and weight), and/or other information.
  • the status section 514 can include the date the item was received and whether the item has undergone any processing.
  • the action section 518 can include a menu or entry field where the remote user can provide instructions regarding the processing of the individual items.
  • the user can choose to shred a mail item, scan a mail item, or send a mail item.
  • the item management process can include selling the recycled material.
  • an additional screen can allow the user to choose to scan the entire item or a certain number of pages. Once the item is scanned the user can view the scanned images and if necessary provide additional instructions.
  • an additional screen can allow the user to send the item to the user or another entity.
  • the user can also select the "remove from mailing list" option. This option can provide feedback to the item management process that indicates the user wishes to be removed from the mailing list of the entity that mailed the selected piece of mail. The management process can track this information and provide this information to various bulk mailing entities and/or to the specific entity that mailed the selected item.
  • the multiple links portion 511 of the display can include links to various pages including a mail transition wizard 522, a junk mail wizard 524, a mail preferences section 520, and/or other information (e.g., account information and a contact link for contacting the managers of the item management system).
  • the mail preferences section 520 can be used, for among other things, setting up rules regarding various mail items that are inducted into the item management system and/or to allow the user to customize display formats for the user's inbox.
  • the mail preference section 520 can allow the user to indicate that mail meeting certain criteria (e.g., from certain sources and/or certain classes of mail) be deleted, shredded, recycled, held, and/or completely scanned immediately upon receipt.
  • the transition wizard 522 can allow mail meeting certain criteria to be sent to the user or another entity immediately after induction.
  • the junk mail wizard 524 can allow a user to designate mail meeting certain criteria to be automatically deleted, shredded, destroyed, or recycled upon receipt and in some cases direct the item management process to send a notice to the direct mail marketing entity that the user does not wish to receive any more direct marketing offers.
  • the computer display 500 can also include other information 526 such as advertising, notices, and summary information.
  • Figure 6 illustrates another computer display 600 through which a user can interface/interact with an item management process via personal management software, for example, through Microsoft® Outlook®, which is available from the Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington.
  • the computer display 600 in Figure 6 includes an image section 612, a physical data section 614, a status section 616, and an action section 618.
  • the action section 618 includes a hold function, a forward now function, a shred function, and a scan contents function. The hold function allows items to be held and shipped later.
  • the item management process can include holding an item selected for deletion, destruction, shredding, and/or recycling for a period of time so that the user can cancel the deletion, destruction, shredding, and/or recycling of the item for a period of time (e.g., 1-3 days).
  • the operator interface can include display pages similar to those described above with reference to the remote user display pages so that an operator can receive information from the item management process, monitor portions of the item management process, and/or provide input to the item management process. For example, if a remote user does not have network access, the user can contact an operator via phone and provide instructions regarding the disposition of mail for a period of time. The operator can then interface with the item management system using "operator display pages" to carry out the user's instructions. Additionally, the "operator display pages" can allow the user to provide instructions to the item management process for other reasons. For example, the operator can provide instructions to the item management system to correct errors and/or to override automatic rules set up by the user. For example, if there is a natural disaster that affects the area where a user has items automatically sent, the operator can suspend the automatic sending of items to that address and notify the remote user that the automatic deliveries have been suspended. The remote user can then provide new instructions regarding the affected items.
  • Items can be received by the item management system via various methods.
  • the process of receiving the item includes attaining physically possession of the item, and in some cases inspecting the item for damage and/or moving the item to a location where the induction process starts or begins.
  • a user can have mail delivered to a physical building address, post office box, or a private mail box (PMB) by a commercial mail receiving agency.
  • the mail can be picked up from the delivery location and transported to a facility remote from the user where the induction process will take place.
  • the mail can be inspected for damage and positioned to begin the induction process.
  • the facility that includes the item management system can be a commercial mail receiving agency and have PMBs assigned to various users and the mail items can be delivered directly to the facility.
  • Mail items can include all types of mail, including packages and letters delivered by the US Postal Service, UPS, Fed Ex, and other letter/package delivery services.
  • a class and type can be associated with a mail item.
  • a mail class is a category of mail defined by the mail's delivery service and content. For example, express mail, priority mail, first-class mail, parcel post, bound printed matter, media mail, standard mail and periodicals are the mail classes recognized by the U.S. Postal Service.
  • courier services which also can have discrete categories of mail (e.g., UPS land or UPS air).
  • a mail type is a category of mail defined by the mail's dimensions. For example, postcard, letter, envelope, priority mail, Express Mail, flat and parcel are the mail types recognized by the U.S. Postal Service. Item Induction
  • Induction is the process of gathering data from or about individual items and/or sorting the items based on the gathered data.
  • the item management system includes a remote mail system and induction includes the process of gathering data about individual mail items and/or sorting the mail pieces based on the gathered data. There are several methods which can be used or combined to accomplish the induction process.
  • the induction process can be accomplished manually where a person gathers data from the mail items and sorts them into containers, cartridges, or totes. For example, a person can read the outside of the envelope or parcel and sort the mail items into different containers.
  • Manual induction requires no pre-sorting of received mail pieces into particular mail classes or mail types and manual induction successfully inducts all but the most badly damaged mail pieces. Additionally, manual induction does not require another induction method to handle exceptions.
  • an identifying feature or identification tag discussed above, can be applied to the mail item.
  • an automated induction process can be used to gather data from a mail piece and sort it into a container, cartridge, or tote.
  • An automated induction process can have various arrangements. For example, in certain embodiments a one-pass induction process can be used. In other embodiments a two-pass induction process can be used.
  • the one-pass induction process gathers data on a mail piece and sorts it in "one touch". Once the person or machine has handled the mail piece, it need not be handled again to complete the induction process.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic flow chart showing a one-touch induction process 700 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • the one-touch induction process 700 includes imaging 702, sizing 704, optical character recognition (OCR) 706, bar code printing 708, bar code verification 710, and sorting 712.
  • OCR optical character recognition
  • the imaging process 702 includes capturing an electronic (e.g., digital) image of a mail item.
  • the sizing process 704 can include measuring selected physical dimensions and/or characteristics of a mail piece. For example, for postcards and letters, sizing can include determining a length, height, and weight for the mail item. For flats and parcels, sizing can include determining a length, height, thickness, and weight of the mail item.
  • the OCR process 706 can be used to locate a portion of a mail item image that contains data relevant to the sorting process 712 and translates at least part of that portion of the image into text.
  • the bar code printing process 708 places machine readable data onto the mail items.
  • the bar code may or may not contain content extracted during OCR. In other embodiments, as discussed above, other identifiers, such as one or two dimensional symbols, radio frequency identification tags, identification tags, or other machine readable indicators can be used.
  • the bar code verification process 710 reads the newly-printed machine-readable bar code (or other identification tag) on the mail item to confirm that bar code printing (or identification tagging) was successful.
  • the sorting process 712 can divide the mail items into groups based on relevant data gathered from each mail item and/or prepare the mail items for storage. For example, in certain embodiments each piece of mail can be placed in an individual container for storage. In other embodiments, the mail can be grouped in larger containers and separated during the storage process. In still other embodiments, the induction process electronically sorts the mail items by their identification tags, but the mail items are not physically sorted until they enter the storage process.
  • the item management system can use commercially available machinery to perform various portions of the induction process.
  • one of the Olympus Series Mail Sorting Machines available from Pitney Bowes of Danbury, Connecticut, can be used to perform at least a portion of the imaging and sorting process discussed above.
  • manual induction is still required to handle certain mail items.
  • a mail item that is too large to be inducted by machine can be inducted manually.
  • the mail items may be manually inspected for damage and/or manually oriented before entering the automated portion of the induction process so that the induction equipment can gather relevant data from the mail items.
  • Figure 8 is a schematic flow chart showing a two-touch induction process 800 in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
  • the "first pass" of a two-pass induction process gathers data from the mail item by performing an imaging process 802 and a sizing process 804, similar to the imaging and sizing processes discussed above with reference to Figure 7.
  • a bar code printing process 808 includes printing and applying a bar code to the mail item so that the mail item has a unique identification.
  • the bar code verification process 810 includes reading the bar code to verify that the bar code is readable and correct.
  • a batch data process 806 includes an OCR process and/or other computational techniques to compute data associated with the mail item based on the imaging process 802 and the sizing process 804.
  • the data is also associated with the unique identification or bar code.
  • the data can include:
  • the user or recipient of the mail item e.g., via the delivery address determined via the OCR process
  • the mail class of the piece (e.g., determined via the OCR process and an image of the postage area); and/or
  • An estimated page count of envelopes and flats (e.g., based on size and weight).
  • the mail item passes quickly through the imaging 802, sizing 804, bar code printing 808, and bar code verification 810 processes providing.
  • the mail item can then be held in a cache (if necessary) while the batch data process 806 is performed.
  • the batch data process 806 can use as much time as required to extract and compute the sort data for each mail item.
  • the mail item can undergo the sorting process 812, similar to the sorting process discussed above with reference to Figure 7.
  • the two-pass induction process 800 can provide data that is more complete and accurate than that attained with the one-pass induction process, while maintaining a fairly high rate of throughput.
  • the induction process can include multiple imagers and/or OCR algorithms, and mail items can be re-scanned and/or images can be re-evaluated when portions of the item are hard to identify.
  • the system may include hardware and/or software for processing the images such that the format or specific patterns of the image may be recognized for other uses. Such uses may include but are not limited to address blocks, iconography, graphics, text, and/or numeric/characters entered in blocks associated with various forms.
  • the processing of an image for character recognition is further enhanced for speed and accuracy by using database information regarding the range of expected content can be accessed and used for comparison and/or verification purposes to determine the image content.
  • the item management system includes multiple induction processes for different types/size mail items.
  • the system can include a method (automated and/or manual) for separating the different types/size mail items and sending them through the corresponding induction process.
  • at least a portion of the storage and retrieval process can be computer controlled.
  • Item storage is the process of storing items in a trackable manner so that they can be accurately and quickly identified, located, and/or retrieved at a later time.
  • the storage process can include storing a nonuniform item in a uniform structure.
  • the item management system includes a remote mail system and the storage process includes storing items so that they can be identified, located, and/or retrieved at a later time.
  • Figure 9 is a partially schematic illustration of a storage center 906 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • each mail item 901 can be individually inserted into a container 930 (e.g., a rigid container) or cassette of sufficient size to contain the entire item 901 (e.g., the packaging and contents).
  • a container 930 e.g., a rigid container
  • cassette of sufficient size to contain the entire item 901 (e.g., the packaging and contents).
  • each container 930 holds only one mail item 901.
  • the mail item 901 can be placed into its designated container 930 via an automated process or handling equipment (e.g., via a robotic manipulator RM).
  • the mail items 901 can be placed into their respective containers 930 or cassettes during the induction process and then enter the storage process. Additional sorting can also be accomplished during the storage process.
  • the containers 930 can be an injection molded sleeve with 5 sides and one open side or face for the insertion and removal of mail items 901.
  • the container 930 can have an anti-static configuration.
  • the container 930 can also have internal ribs oriented toward the open face to prevent the portions of the mail item 901 from clinging to the inner surfaces of the container 930.
  • the containers 930 can each have a unique identifier 931 so that each container can be uniquely identified by visual and/or electronic means.
  • the containers 930 can each carry an identification tag (e.g., barcodes or radio frequency identification tags) so the mail item in the container, including the item's characteristics (e.g., size, weight, address information, sender information, induction date/time, etc.) can be associated with that container.
  • an identification tag e.g., barcodes or radio frequency identification tags
  • characteristics e.g., size, weight, address information, sender information, induction date/time, etc.
  • the containers 930 can also include physical features (e.g., engagement mechanisms) which allow them to be inserted into and retrieved from a storage rack system 936 (which includes one or more racks 937), be transported on a conveyor system 934, be carried by a carrier 932 (discussed below in further detail) and/or be manipulated by a robotic manipulator RM.
  • Such features may include but are not limited to slots, pins, grooves, hooks, or other engagement devices for engaging portions of the rack system 936, conveyor system 934, and/or robotic manipulator RM.
  • one or more of the containers 930 can be carried by a carrier 932 or pallet.
  • the containers 930 can be uniform in shape and size so any container can be positioned in any location or slot on a carrier 932.
  • the carriers 932 can allow multiple containers 930 to move through the storage center and/or be stored in the storage center together.
  • the carrier 932 to also carry an identifier 933 so that movement of the carrier can be tracked throughout the storage center.
  • the carriers 932 can include features to permit stacking or nesting them for storage (e.g., in the rack system 936).
  • the carriers 932 can also include features that allow the container 932 to be inserted into and retrieved from a storage rack system 936, be transported on a conveyor system 934, and/or be manipulated by a robotic manipulator RM.
  • the carriers 930 can be dispatched along a conveyor system 934 to the storage rack system 936.
  • the conveyor system 934 may include transfer locations to re-direct the carriers 932 to other sections of the storage center and/or out of the storage center (e.g., to the processing center). In certain embodiments, decisions regarding the direction or diversion of the carriers 932 can be partially or completely automated. Additionally, in selected embodiments at least a portion of the storage and retrieval process can be computer controlled.
  • the conveyor system can include return lines to allow carriers 932 that have been moved out of the storage center (e.g., moved to processing) to be directed back to the induction center and/or allow containers with mail items to return to the rack system 936. This can permit items to be retrieved in one portion of the rack system 936 and directed to a different portion of the rack system 936 or moved out of the storage center and returned.
  • a carrier 932 with one or more containers 930 is transported via the conveyor system 934 to an individual rack 937 in the rack system 936, where the carrier 932 (with the containers 930) is removed from the conveyor system 934 and placed into the individual rack 937.
  • the item 901 can carry a unique identifier 999. Accordingly, if the item identifier 999 was associated with the container identifier 931 and the container identifier 931 was associated with the carrier identifier 933, the item identifier 999 can now be associated with the individual rack in which the carrier 932 is stored.
  • the individual rack 937 can include a rack identifier 938, each location in the rack can include an identifier, and/or the system can identify the rack by the position in the conveyor system 934 where the carrier 932 was removed and placed in a rack.
  • all of the identifiers include bar codes and the bar codes are scanned at each step of the process.
  • the identifiers include radio frequency identification tags which are sensed at each step of the process.
  • FIG 10 is an isometric illustration of an individual storage rack 1037 configured to store multiple different types of containers in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • the rack 1037 shown in Figure 10 is configured to store a first container 1030a without a carrier.
  • the first carrier 1030a is moved throughout the storage center without the use of a carrier.
  • the first carriers 1030a are moved throughout a least a portion of the storage center on a carrier and removed from the carrier when they are placed into the rack 1037.
  • the rack 1037 and first container 1030a include engagement mechanisms 1098 to aid in interfacing and/or securing the first container 1030a to the rack 1037.
  • the rack 1037 also carries second containers 1030b.
  • the second containers 1030b are carried by carriers 1032, which in turn are carried by the rack 1037.
  • the individual second containers 1030b can be removed individually from the carriers 1032, even while the carrier is in the rack 1037 Additionally, the carriers, with any associated second containers, can be removed from the rack 1037 as a unit.
  • Figures 11-13 are isometric illustrations of a rack 1137 with a robotic manipulator RM that is used to insert containers 1130 into the rack 1137, remove containers 1130 from the rack, and manipulate containers 1130 relative to the rack 1137 in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
  • Figure 11 shows the rack 1137, the robotic manipulator RM carrying a carrier 1132 with containers 1130, and a portion of a conveyor system 1134 carrying additional carriers 1132 and containers 1130.
  • Figure 12 shows a portion of a carrier 1132 carrying containers 1130.
  • Two first engagement devices 1198a e.g., female engaging devices
  • Figure 13 shows the robotic manipulator RM carrying a carrier 1132 with multiple containers 1130.
  • the second engaging devices 1198b e.g., male engaging devices
  • the robotic manipulator RM is configured so that it can move at least vertically and horizontally with respect to the rack 1137 and the conveyor 1134 (shown in Figure 11).
  • the robotic manipulator 1137 is configured so that it can move individual containers 1130 in and out of the rack 1137.
  • the rack 1137 includes multiple engaging devices for engaging the individual containers 1130 as they are slid into and removed from the rack 1137.
  • the carrier 1132 can be returned to the conveyor system 1134 (shown in Figure 11 ) and moved throughout or out of the storage center.
  • the storage center can have other arrangements. For example, in certain embodiments multiple mail items are placed in a single container based on user and/or operator defined rules. For example, multiple magazine type mail items for a specific user are placed in a single container.
  • the containers can be integral with the carriers.
  • the mail items are placed in containers, moved throughout the storage center, and transferred to other containers for placement into a rack.
  • Figure 14 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a storage center 1406 with containers 1430 permanently attached to one or more conveyor systems 1434 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • the storage center 1406 includes a first conveyor 1434a that has first containers 1430 permanently attached to the first conveyor 1434a.
  • each first container 1430a has an open top, four sides, and a sliding or moving bottom which can be opened, actuated, or retracted to allow the material to drop out the bottom when desired.
  • Mail items are placed in the containers during the induction process or the storage process.
  • FIG 14 when a mail item is above the rack destined for storing it, the bottom of the container opens and the mail item drops into either a cache or directly onto a robotic manipulator.
  • the mail item drops through a chute system 1497, which guides the mail item between the first container 1430a and the specified rack.
  • the storage center 1406 does not include a chute system 1497. If the mail item falls into a cache, it is held in the cache until the robotic manipulator is available to handle the mail item.
  • the robotic manipulator can move relative to the corresponding rack and move the mail item into and out of storage locations in the corresponding rack. To remove material from the rack, the robotic manipulator removes the mail item from its storage slot and places or drops the mail item to a location where the mail item can be dropped or placed in a second container 1430b on the second conveyor 1434b and moved away from the storage rack.
  • FIG 15 is an isometric illustration of a chute system used to transfer items between first conveyor 1434a and the rack system 1436 shown in Figure 14.
  • the storage center can include additional conveyors, each having permanently attached containers for moving mail items throughout the storage center. In some circumstances it can be necessary to transfer mail items between conveyor systems.
  • a chute system similar to that shown in Figure 15 can be used to aid the gravity transfer of mail items between one conveyor and another. In other embodiments, the transfers can be made without a chute system and/or with the aid of a robotic manipulator.
  • FIG 16 is an isometric illustration of a portion of a storage center 1606 with a chute system 1697 for transferring containers 1630 between one portion of the storage center 1606 and another.
  • containers 1630 can be carried by carriers 1632 on a conveyor 1634.
  • the carrier 1632 can release the container 1630, allowing it to drop into a cache or onto a robotic manipulator.
  • the container 1630 can then be stored in a manner similar to that for storing the mail item discussed with reference to Figure 14.
  • the chute system 1967 can aid in guiding the container into the rack.
  • the container can be removed from the rack in a manner similar to that of removing the mail item discussed with reference to Figure 14.
  • the storage center 1606 does not include a chute system 1697.
  • a robotic manipulator may be used to sort, reorder, or otherwise organize the positions of a rack's contents for purposes of a sequenced retrieval order, grouping of items based on attributes, or to minimize the robotic traversal times for future retrievals. For example, during periods when a robotic manipulator of a given rack is not engaged in placing items from a conveyor system into storage or retrieving items and placing them on the conveyor system, the robotic manipulator can be directed to retrieve and re-insert containers to better organize the contents of the rack. This may be accomplished by moving groups of containers (e.g., a group of containers stored on a carrier) or by moving individual carriers. In certain embodiments, the storage system can reorganize containers by moving containers between racks, for example, by using a portion of a conveyor system.
  • mail items are re-ordered in the rack so that the mail items are retrieved from the rack system in the order or in the reverse order of a carrier delivery route.
  • This can involve a computer system determining the carrier route order and selecting all the corresponding mail items in the storage center that match the chosen sequence.
  • the mail may be retrieved in order regardless of whether it is distributed throughout the storage center or entirely contained within a single rack.
  • the same logic can be used for initial placement of mail items in the storage center.
  • items can move from induction to specific racks associated with certain sequences or rules and/or be stored within certain portions of a rack based on these selected sequences or rules.
  • items can be stored on racks that are proximate to one another to enhance retrieval sequencing.
  • items can be retrieved by the storage center and sent to the processing center for processing.
  • the storage center can retrieve items in a specific sequence or order regardless of where they are stored in the storage center (e.g., stored in the rack system). For example, in selected embodiments this can be done by transporting a carrier to various locations throughout a rack system to collect various mail items and/or containers in a specific sequence or grouping. These items may be automatically retrieved in any one of a variety of sequence and/or secondary sequences as determined by the customer or by the system.
  • the items remaining in the storage center for delivery to a single address can be automatically retrieved in a sequence corresponding to an alphanumerical coding on the item, such as a zipcode, a name, an address, or other information.
  • the retrieved items can then be grouped together as a bundle for subsequent processing and/or delivery to the address, addressee and/or other designated area (such as a delivery kiosk, described in greater detail below).
  • Selected items in the storage center such as items for a single addressee, can be automatically retrieved in a different sequence or a secondary sequence, such as based upon the size of the items.
  • multiple carriers can be directed through the system to collect items for segments of a sequence, and when all items are collected, the carriers can exit the system in the order necessary for further processing. In still other embodiments, multiple carriers can be directed through the system to collect items for a selected grouping and once all the items are collected, the carriers can exit the system to carry the items to the processing center.
  • sequences for manual retrieval can also be based upon alphanumeric information or other item characteristics. Other sequences or secondary sequences for manual retrieval can be provided based upon mensuration data about physical attributes (i.e., the size) of the items being retrieved.
  • the items for single address can be designated for removal, and the removal sequence can use the information about the items' sizes (e.g., length, width, height, and/or weight) to follow a progressive size order.
  • the largest item 1902 is removed first and a progressively decreasing size order sequence is followed.
  • the medium sized items 1904 are retrieved after the large items 1902, and the small items 1906.
  • the smallest item 1904 is removed first and a progressively increasing size order if followed.
  • a series of retrieval sequence are followed, such as retrieval of a first classification of items first (e.g. parcels), and then retrieval of a second classification of items (e.g., flats), and then another classification of items (e.g. Express Mail or Priority Mail), and so on.
  • a sub-sequence can be applied, such as retrieval of the designated classifications in a selected progressive size order.
  • even further sub-sub-sequences can be applied during the manual or automated retrieval process.
  • the above process of sequencing the retrieval and/or grouping of items based upon selected item characteristics, when applied to items, such as mail pieces of various sizes, has the advantage of permitting the variety of sized mail to be retrieved, gathered, grouped, clustered, attached, wrapped, bound, or otherwise held together for various conveniences to the delivery organization, intermediate handling system, and/or the customer/addressee.
  • This process of sequencing the items also allows items received from dissimilar processing areas, systems, or equipment to be integrated together in a specific and pre-determined manner.
  • items can be bundled in a stack 1910 with the Express Mail envelopes 1912 located at the top of the stack whereas the small parcels 1914 or the Standard Mail 1916 may be located at the bottom of the stack.
  • Express Mail envelopes 1912 located at the top of the stack whereas the small parcels 1914 or the Standard Mail 1916 may be located at the bottom of the stack.
  • the system includes separators 2000 that can be used to separate selected items 2002 or batches of items 2004.
  • a separator such as a separator card or other separator piece, allows an operator to quickly and efficiently process more items 2002 in a continuous manner and has the additional utility of reducing the interim handling of the batches of items 2004.
  • the separator 2000 provides a physical and visual indicator of the beginning or end of a batch of items (which can include one or more items).
  • the separator may be paper, cardstock, cardboard, cloth, wood, plastic, or other material suitable for automated use by the sortation system discussed above.
  • the separator 2000 can be any of a variety of shapes, although in a selected embodiment, the separator is shaped and sized to be automatically engaged and/or manipulated by the material handling devices in the sorter. Accordingly, the separator can be automatically placed with selected items. For example, when items for a plurality of addressee are retrieved from the storage center, a separator can be placed between selected items to separate the items designated for one addressee from the items for another addressee. The retrieved collection of items (which may be sorted in a selected size progression as discussed above) with the separators therein, can then be moved as a unit, such as to a location for delivery to the addressee by a postal carrier or other delivery system.
  • an operator can insert a stack of separators 2000, which the sorter distributes to each of the pockets.
  • the separators may be inserted into the system using an automatic feeder device operating as an adjunct to the primary sorting system. The operator can then begin processing another batch of different recipients to the same pockets used for the earlier pass. This can be repeated until the pockets approach capacity and/or the pockets are selectively emptied after a batch depending on their filled amount.
  • a separator associated with a collection of one or more items can be placed at either the beginning or end of the collection. In another embodiment two separators can be associated with a selected collection of items and placed at the beginning and end of the collection.
  • the separators 2000 may also have features or characteristics 2102 (shown in phantom lines) that make it useful to handling systems or personnel during or after the items are retrieved from the storage center.
  • the separators 2000 can have a shape (e.g. a trapezoidal shape or other geometric shape) to conform to inside dimensions and/or shape of totes, trays, or tubs into which the retrieved items may be placed, such as for transportation to a postal carrier or other delivery system.
  • the separators can be a selected color so the separators are easily and quickly visually identifiable. In one embodiment, all of the separator may be the same color, and in other embodiments the separators can have different colors to allow for a color coding systems (e.g., different colors to correspond to zip codes, cities, states, or other differentiator).
  • the separators 2000 can include features or elements 2104 (shown in phantom lines) that allow a separator to be used as or in conjunction with other parts so as to bundle, gather, wrap, or otherwise hold together the selected items in sequence (e.g., a progressive size sequence) immediately before or immediately after the separator.
  • Such features may include engagement for rubber bands, self-adhering strips of material such as paper, cloth, plastic, or metal. The function of keeping the adjacent pieces grouped together assists in the handling and delivery of the pieces as a unitized piece for improved efficiency in subsequent handling or processing.
  • the separators 2000 may have human and/or machine-readable identifier 2106, such as text, graphics, RFID tags, bar-codes, two-dimensional symbology, or other identifier that can be associated with one or more selected items and/or used to facilitate reliable handling of the materials in later stages.
  • the separator 2000 can have an identifier 2106 that is associated and bundled with a collection of items. That identifier 2106 can then be used to track subsequent handling or movement of the associated bundle of items.
  • the identifier in one embodiment, can be used to confirm that the associated bundle of items has been removed from the storage center, and/or that it has been properly delivered to a postal carrier or other delivery system.
  • the separator and identifier can also be read/identified after the items have been delivered, thereby allowing for tracking and verification of the movement and/or delivery of the selected items to a final or intermediate location.
  • An additional function of the separator 2000 may be used to track the movement or delivery of the items (e.g., mail pieces) associated to enhance security or quality of service of the delivery.
  • the associated separator may be scanned using manual or automatic means to collect information about the separator's identity (which is associated with the items). At the time of scanning it is possible to acquire and associate to the scan other information such as time, date, carrier, equipment, or any of various other pieces of data that may be used for purposes specific to the operation of the system.
  • the acquisition of the time, date, and operator or equipment information may be used to advantage by the customer and the delivery agency by verifying delivery of materials and identifying the specifics of the delivery conditions. Such information may also be used by the delivery agency to monitor the performance, timeliness, and efficiency of the delivery personnel. The information or some portion of it may also be transmitted to the recipient as notification that material has been delivered such that the recipient is aware in a timely manner.
  • the separator can be removed from the bundle of items.
  • the identifier can then be read/identified and disassociated with the bundle of items.
  • the separator can be returned and/or reused, such as by the storage center discussed above.
  • the separator can include markings and/or graphics in the form of a return address 2108 to permit the postal or other handling systems to immediately recognize the separator piece when it is not associated with a bundle of material and take a designated course of action such as directing the separator to a predetermined location or address.
  • the separator can be a disposable / recyclable item delivered with the bundle of items. Configurations of the separator 2000 that do not get bundled with the adjacent mail pieces may be designed for return and re-use in the automated handling system.
  • Items retrieved from the storage center can be processed in a variety of ways depending on the type of items being stored, the action(s) desired by a user, and/or the action(s) desired by an operator.
  • processing can include, but is not limited to, removing items from the item management process, shipping items (e.g., to a user or other entity), performing various manual operations on items, altering the items, scanning or imaging the items, marking the items, separating the items, disposing of the items, recycling the items, destroying the items, and/or simply passing the items through the processing center and returning the items to the storage center (e.g., when an item has been removed with a group of other items from storage and/or an item has been removed from storage by mistake).
  • items that are being archived can be retrieved, moved through the processing center, and returned to the storage center for storage in a different area.
  • items can be archived (e.g., moved to another location in the storage center) without leaving the storage center.
  • the item management system includes a remote mail system and items can be removed from storage so that at least a portion of the item can be scanned (e.g., the entire mail item including the packaging and contents).
  • a user can remotely review details about an item that has been inducted and stored, and provide instructions to have the document scanned.
  • the document can be retrieved from storage and moved to the processing center for scanning.
  • the scanning process can be fully automated, partially automated, or accomplished manually.
  • the scanning process can include scanning at least a portion of the packaging 1702 (e.g., the outside of the mail item) and making duplicate packaging materials 1704.
  • a portion of an envelope that includes a bar code applied during the induction process can be scanned.
  • a duplicate envelope can be printed with the same images and bar code.
  • the corresponding bar code can be electronically added to an image taken during the induction process and the composite image can be printed on the duplicate envelope.
  • a duplicate identification tag can be applied to the duplicate packaging materials.
  • the packaging can be opened (process portion 1706), either manually or using an automated extraction machine.
  • an automated extraction machine can slit an envelope and remove the contents.
  • the packaging can be scanned (process portion 1702) and the duplicate packaging material (process portion 1704) can be accomplished after the packaging has been opened or after the contents have been removed.
  • the packaging is opened and the contents removed, other portions of the mail item can be prepared for scanning (process portion 1708).
  • the papers can be unfolded and the staples can be removed.
  • the papers can then be placed between the original and duplicate packaging materials so that the scanner will be able to determine the start of the mail item and the end of the mail item.
  • the scanner or related computing device can determine that the entire mail item has been scanned when a repeat image or identification tag is sensed.
  • the mail item can then be scanned in its entirety (process portion 1710).
  • the mail item e.g., the contents and original packaging
  • the duplicate packaging material process portion 1712
  • the scanned image of the entire mail item can then be sent to the user electronically for review.
  • the scanned image can be manipulated (e.g., indexed and/or enhanced) before being sent to the user.
  • the item management system can include a document management system.
  • the item management system can receive an item (e.g., from a user via mail or delivery) that includes a pouch or other container (e.g., packaging) with one or more documents inside (e.g., content).
  • the item can include bar code or other identifier when the item is received (e.g., the pouch can already have an identifier when the user places the documents in the pouch) and the item can be inducted into the system using this identifier and stored.
  • the user can provide a description of the pouch content and/or other information about the pouch via the user interface so that this information can be stored and associated with the identifier when or after the item is inducted.
  • This information can also be stored in a searchable database or system that allows the user to use the system to find items stored via the bar code with the associated information.
  • the item can be stored per a set of rules pre-established by the user and/or the operator.
  • the container portion of the item can be sealed and the item can remained sealed until it is retrieved and returned to the user, protecting the privacy of the container's contents. Additionally, the seal can provide an indication of whether the privacy and/or security of the item have been breached.
  • a monitoring system similar to those discussed above, can provide additional security.
  • the item can be processed before storage.
  • the item can be moved to a processing center where the item can be opened, the contents scanned, and the item resealed (e.g., in a duplicate envelope as discussed above with reference to Figure 17).
  • the item can then be stored and the scanned images can be stored electronically to provide a record of what is being stored, to provide backup copies of the stored item, and/or to make the electronic images available for remote viewing.
  • the item can be retrieved from storage and sent to a user via the processing center.
  • the user can modify the item, for example, add and remove papers from a pouch, and return the item to the item management system.
  • the item management system can identify the item as a returned item (e.g., based on an identification tag) and send the item to processing based on a pre-determined set of instructions.
  • the item can be opened and the contents can be scanned.
  • the item can then be sent to storage.
  • the new images can be compared to the stored record to determine changes made to the item and/or to create a new record of what is being stored.
  • a user can have a current inventory of the item stored and/or a history of changes made to the item.
  • the processing center can provide other types of processing, for example, other types of processing can include recycling, shredding, copying, and shipping the item or a copy of the item to another entity.
  • an item management system can include both a remote mail system and a document management system.
  • an item management system can be used to store items that include CD/DVD.
  • the CD/DVD can be configured for any type of data storage, including audio and/or visual data.
  • the system can be used to track the location of the CD/DVD, how often they have been used, how they have been used, and/or how they have been modified. Accordingly, this feature can be particularly useful for an in-store or by-mail CD/DVD rental facility.
  • the items can include books that are lent to various entities (e.g., by a library), provide many of the same features and advantages discussed with reference to CD/DVDs.
  • Figure 18 illustrates a manual induction station 1850 that might be used in a corporate mail room in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.
  • a similar process can be used in conjunction with an automated induction system (e.g., for use with a large scale remote mail system) to induct items that are incompatible with the automated induction process (e.g., to induct items that are too large for the automated system).
  • the manual induction station 1850 includes a table or platform 1852.
  • Various sensors can be coupled to the platform.
  • weight sensors 1856 are positioned so that a weight of an item placed (e.g., manually placed) on the platform 1852 can be sensed.
  • electromagnetic sensors 1858 e.g., photo diodes
  • the size e.g., a two dimensional size
  • shape of an item based on the number of electromagnetic sensors 1858 that are covered when the item is placed on the platform 1852.
  • the manual induction station can include one or more imaging devices 1860 (e.g., a scanner and/or camera).
  • the imaging devices 1860 can be handheld or mounted proximate to the platform 1852.
  • the imaging device 1860 can be used to capture an image of all or a portion of an item, and in some cases can gather other information about the item.
  • the platform 1852 can have dimensional markings 1854 on or in a surface of the platform 1852, and the imaging device 1860 can provide dimensional data by imaging the item relative to the dimensional markings 1854.
  • the image device can be configured to compute various dimensions (e.g., width and length) of the item based on the image or send the image to a computer system, which in turn can compute the dimensions.
  • an index marking e.g., a corner of the platform 1852
  • the platform 1852 can be transparent and the imaging device 1860 can be placed below or be integral with the platform 1852.
  • the manual induction system 1850 can have other arrangements.
  • a data entry device 1862 can allow the operator to manually enter data regarding the item.
  • the operator gathers dimensional data visually using the dimensional markings 1854 and enters the data into the data entry device 1862.
  • the operator uses the data entry device 1862 to enter any damage on the item that the operator observes.
  • the manual induction station can include other device(s) 1864.
  • the other device(s) 1864 can include a device that provides an identifier for the item (e.g., a printer that prints a bar code sticker which the operator places on the item).
  • the other device(s) 1864 can include a device that reads identifiers, such as a bar code reader or radio frequency identification reader.
  • the other device(s) 1864 can include a device that provides the operator with sorting instructions, for example, a computer monitor that provides instructions to the operator to place the item in a container and send it to storage or to send the item to processing based on a pre-determined set of rules as discussed above.
  • aspects of the item management system and process can be utilized in a substantially unattended facility to automatically sort, store, and deliver mail and/or other inducted items to authorized recipients.
  • the single pass sortation system permits a service provider, such as a postal organization, to provide levels of service to their customers that have not been previously possible in existing infrastructures.
  • the system configuration and operational software may be implemented such that the sortation hardware can operate as a kiosk where the mail or other item(s) relating to a customer is held by the machine until sufficient identification and authorization is verified so that the material may be released to the identified customer.
  • This system can be used for materials other than postal mail such as parcels, medical prescriptions, financial or similar sensitive documents, high value components, and/or distribution media for software or entertainment.
  • An embodiment of the unattended system will be discussed below in conjunction with receiving, sorting, storing and delivering items such as mail and parcels, although it is to be understood that the system could be used with other items.
  • the unattended sortation/delivery system 2200 as applied to unattended distribution of selected items has a secure enclosure 2202 to prevent abuse or unauthorized access to the materials contained therein.
  • the enclosure has a secured input area 2204 into which the mail and/or parcels 2206 can be entered into the system by an authorized delivery sources, such as a postal carrier or other authorized courier.
  • the items received through input area of the illustrated embodiment are automatically passed through the automated induction process, sortation and storage process substantially as described above.
  • the system 2200 also has a customer interface system 2208 that allows a customer to identify themselves for receipt of items from the storage center. The items are delivered to the authorized customer from the storage center 2210 through a secured delivery portal 2212.
  • the customer interface system 2208 has an identification input portion 2214 configured to allow a customer to input one or more unique identifiers corresponding only to that customer.
  • the customer interface system 2208 includes a highly secure system configured for accurate customer identification using, as an example, password access, keycard access, fingerprint identification, palm-print identification, or retinal scan/ identification, voice recognition, and/or other suitable security means.
  • the customer interface system 2208 is operatively coupled to a control system 2218 that manages the operation of the station and that matches information about the identified customer to the one or more items being stored in the storage center for that customer.
  • the control system 2218 can activate the retrieval devices to retrieve the selected items for the identified customer from the storage center and to deliver the items to the delivery portal, thereby releasing the items to the customer through a secure portal without permitting unauthorized access to the rest of the system.
  • the system 2200 can also include security devices 2220, such as video cameras, sound recorders, impact/strain detectors, or other and visual, audio, or other monitoring devices.
  • a customer would approach the system 2200, such as at a kiosk, access the customer interface system 2208 and identify themselves to the system as a valid customer.
  • the system would then authenticate the customer's identification information.
  • the control system 2218 would automatically activate the storage center to retrieve any or all of the items being held for that customer.
  • the retrieved items are then delivered to the delivery portal 2212, which would be unlocked or otherwise activated to allow the customer to collect the delivered items from the portal.
  • the delivery portal After the customer has removed the items from the delivery portal, the delivery portal would be secured to prevent any unauthorized person from accessing the portal area.
  • the control system can also update a database or other tracking system to confirm the time, date or other related information about the delivery of the items to the customer.
  • the system 2200 of one embodiment can be configured for support and management by an agent who, for example, visits the kiosk site on a regular or scheduled basis. This agent could also be responsible for delivering items to the system for induction, storage, and subsequent delivery to customers.
  • the system 2200 may also be configured to receive materials, for example, from an authenticated customer, or at the discretion of the system configurators, from any customer with material to submit. In such cases, authorization to receive the material may take the form of printed text, graphics, or similar markings such as postage, airbills, or shipping statements that conform to a predetermined set of protocols.
  • the accepted items would be held in a holding area for pick up by the agent or other authorized individual.
  • the holding area in one embodiment would be separate from the storage center discussed above to provide protection for the other items stored in the storage area. Such deliveries and pickups would occur on a regular basis or as necessary at the discretion of the responsible organization.
  • [00116] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be made without deviating from the invention. Additionally, aspects of the invention described in the context of particular embodiments or examples may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. Although advantages associated with certain embodiments of the invention have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages. Additionally, not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited except as by the appended claims.

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Abstract

Cette invention concerne d'une manière générale des systèmes de gestion d'articles et des procédés associés. Cette invention concerne, selon certains aspects, un procédé et un système de gestion d'articles physiques pour des entités éloignées, une pluralité d'articles physiques associés à au moins une des entités éloignées étant reçues à un emplacement éloigné des entités. Le système détermine à quelle entité éloignée les articles sont associés, puis recueille des données relatives aux articles, y compris des données relatives à la taille de chaque article. Le système est conçu pour stocker chaque article à un emplacement de stockage discret et pour associer l'emplacement de stockage discret de chaque article à des informations relatives à l'article en question. Le système est également conçu pour récupérer une pluralité d'articles pour une entité éloignée sélectionnée à partir des emplacements de stockage discrets, les articles étant récupérés dans un ordre de taille progressif sur la base des données de taille, puis recueillis séquentiellement dans l'ordre de taille progressif.
PCT/US2007/085679 2006-11-27 2007-11-27 Système de tri et d'extraction pour systèmes de gestion d'articles et procédés associés WO2008067336A2 (fr)

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