Method for sorting letters

Abstract

The current invention relates to a method for sorting mailpieces in a sorting machine, wherein a digital image of a mailpiece is captured; reading the address details of the mailpiece based on the digital image; generating and storing a unique digital fingerprint for each mailpiece in a database, and linking the digital image, the address details, and parameters of the mailpiece to the digital fingerprint; matching the digital fingerprint of the mailpiece with a database of historical data to determine a distribution route for the mailpiece; and pre-sorting each mailpiece in a storage container, wherein the address of the mailpiece is recognized and recorded by optical character recognition (OCR) or similar technology.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The field of the invention relates to postal sorting technology, in particular an automated method for sorting mailpieces using digital image processing, database management, unique digital fingerprints, and historical data for determining and optimizing distribution routes.PRIOR ART

[0002] Sorting mailpieces is a complex and time-consuming process that requires accuracy and efficiency.

[0003] Such a method is known, for example, from US7574015. US7574015 describes a method for sorting mailpieces in a sorting machine with sorting outlets and sorting bins. During a first sorting pass, a digital photograph of a mailpiece is taken, wherein automatic address recognition is applied to obtain address data. This data is linked to a digital fingerprint of the mailpiece and stored in a database, associated with the sorting outlet to which the mailpiece is directed. During a second sorting pass, another digital photograph is taken of the mailpiece, and the current digital fingerprint is derived. This is compared with the stored fingerprints in the database to detect a match. If there is a match, the mailpiece is directed to the correct sorting outlet based on the previously stored address details. The method uses digital fingerprints as logical identifiers for mailpieces and makes efficient use of a database to optimize the sorting process.

[0004] The method, which requires two sorting passes, has significant disadvantages for the sorting system. First of all, it increases the complexity of the system, which can lead to an increase in maintenance and operational problems. This complexity can, for example, result in a greater likelihood of technical malfunctions or errors in the sorting process.

[0005] Moreover, the use of multiple sorting passes also has time-related disadvantages. The need for additional sorting steps can result in delays in the sorting process, especially during the busy peak hours of mail processing. This can lead to inefficiency and possibly even to the failure to handle mailpieces in a timely manner, which can impair the overall quality of postal services and reduce customer satisfaction.

[0006] In addition, the additional sorting passes also entail extra costs. Besides the initial investment in the more complex sorting system, operational costs can increase due to the required additional resources, such as personnel and energy.

[0007] These higher costs can be a significant burden for postal services, particularly in a time and sector where time and cost savings are crucial factors.

[0008] The present invention aims to solve at least some of the above problems or drawbacks.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method according to claim 1. The present invention relates to a method for sorting mailpieces in a sorting machine with significant advantages over previous methods. In this method, only a single sorting pass is performed, wherein a digital image of a mailpiece is captured and the address details is read simultaneously. Each mailpiece is assigned a unique digital fingerprint that is stored in a database, along with the corresponding address details and parameters of the mailpiece.

[0010] By performing only a single sorting pass, not only is the processing time of mailpieces significantly reduced, but a substantial time saving is also achieved. This reduced processing time is crucial in a time when postal services are faced with a larger flow of parcels and letters due to the growth of e-commerce. Faster processing times enable postal services to meet the demands of the modern consumer, who expects fast and reliable delivery.

[0011] Additionally, the implementation of this method leads to significant personnel savings for routine tasks. By reducing the need for extra manual intervention, postal services can deploy their personnel more effectively for tasks that require more expertise or where human intervention is necessary. This optimizes operational efficiency and simultaneously reduces personnel costs.

[0012] Through this invention, a significant contribution is made to the mail distribution industry, with potentially significant consequences for (cost) efficiency, time savings, and a lower error margin.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The invention relates to a method for automatically sorting letters, more specifically a method wherein all data and parameters of a postal letter are linked to each postal letter in a single sorting pass.

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings as commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For a better assessment of the description of the invention, the following terms are explicitly explained.

[0015] In this document, "a" and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context presupposes otherwise. For example, "a segment" means one or more segments.

[0016] When "about" or "approximately" is used in this document with a measurable quantity, a parameter, a time period or moment, and the like, variations of + / -20% or less are meant, preferably + / -10% or less, more preferably + / -5% or less, even more preferably + / -1% or less, and even more preferably + / -0.1% or less of and from the cited value, insofar as such variations are applicable in the described invention. It should be understood, however, that the value of the quantity with which the term "about" or "approximately" is used is itself specifically disclosed.

[0017] The terms "comprise," "comprising," "consist of," "consisting of," "provided with," "include," "including," "contain," "containing," are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or preclude the presence of other components, features, elements, members, steps, known from or disclosed in the prior art.

[0018] Reference to a numerical range by its endpoints includes all values between and including the endpoints, namely integers, fractions and real numbers.

[0019] In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for sorting mailpieces in a sorting machine, wherein the sorting machine comprises sorting outlets with corresponding storage containers, which method comprises: a) performing a single sorting pass wherein during this pass a digital image of a mailpiece with address details is captured and wherein one or more parameters of the mailpiece are determined simultaneously; b) reading the address details based on the digital image of the mailpiece; c) generating a unique digital fingerprint for each mailpiece and storing this fingerprint in a database, and linking the digital image, the address details, and the one or more parameters generated in step a) and b) of the mailpiece to the digital fingerprint; d) matching the fingerprint of the mailpiece with a database comprising historical data regarding address details and distribution routes of mailpieces, wherein a distribution route is selected for each mailpiece based on the historical data; and e) pre-sorting each mailpiece into the designated storage container of an identified distribution route.

[0020] The invention as described herein offers several significant advantages for postal sorting. Firstly, the performance of only a single sorting pass results in significant time savings and operational efficiency, which translates into a lower cost of the process. By simultaneously capturing a digital image of the mailpiece and determining multiple parameters, such as length, width, weight, and thickness, the sorting process is optimized and sorting errors are minimized. This leads to a faster processing time for mailpieces, whereby postal services can better meet the increasing demand for speed and efficiency in mail delivery.

[0021] Additionally, the generation of a unique digital fingerprint per mailpiece contributes to improved traceability and security of mailpieces. By linking the digital image, the address details, and the parameters to this fingerprint, each mailpiece is accurately identified and tracked throughout the entire sorting process. This enables postal services to quickly and accurately determine the location of each mailpiece, which results in higher delivery reliability and a reduction in lost or misdelivered mail.

[0022] Moreover, matching the fingerprint of the mailpiece with a database of historical data regarding address details and distribution routes enables an optimized assignment of delivery routes. By using historical data, postal services can determine the most efficient delivery routes, which results in shorter delivery times, less fuel consumption, and a reduction in CO2 emissions. This contributes to a more sustainable mail delivery, which is becoming increasingly important in a time when environmental awareness is high on the agenda.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method comprises the implementation of optical character recognition (OCR) or a similar technology. In a preferred embodiment, this technology is used to read the address details on the mailpieces. The use of OCR or a similar technology reduces the need for human intervention in the process. This results in a reduction of the error margins and a more efficient processing of the mailpieces. The OCR or similar technology can preferably be used to generate a digital image of the mailpiece and to read the address details. This can preferably occur during a single sorting pass.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment, the method can comprise matching the fingerprint of the mailpiece with a database. This database can preferably contain historical data relating to address details and distribution routes of mailpieces. A distribution route can preferably be selected for each mailpiece based on the historical data. The pre-sorting of each mailpiece into the designated storage container of an identified distribution route can also preferably be part of the method.

[0025] This method offers the advantage that it is possible to sort more accurately by using the historical data. Moreover, the method makes it possible to learn from new input and results, whereby the sorting machine is able to adapt to changes in address details and distribution routes, which results in improved sorting accuracy in the long term.

[0026] Additionally, in a further embodiment, the database with historical data can be regularly updated or adjusted based on new information or feedback from the sorting process. This can help to improve the accuracy and reliability of the sorting procedure over time.

[0027] In one embodiment of the method, the parameters that are determined are selected from the group of the length, width, weight, and / or thickness of the mailpieces. In one embodiment, all of the aforementioned parameters are determined. In one embodiment of the method, billing data is generated based on the determined parameters. By capturing the physical characteristics of the mailpieces, the system can automatically apply the correct rates based on, for example, weight classes or dimensions. This leads to more accurate and faster billing, whereby postal services save time and resources and simultaneously reduce the error margin.

[0028] In one embodiment of the method, the method comprises a step of forwarding the mailpiece to the selected distribution route for further processing and delivery. In a preferred embodiment, this step further comprises collecting the mailpieces in storage containers and delivering these storage containers to a distributor.

[0029] A selected distribution route can take various forms, depending on the specific needs and infrastructure of the postal service system. One possible distribution route is directly delivering the mailpieces to a distribution partner, such as a mail delivery company or a courier service. In this case, the mailpieces are passed on to the distributor, who is then responsible for the further delivery process to the recipients.

[0030] In one embodiment of the method, it comprises a step of manually sorting out mailpieces that were not correctly registered during the pass, wherein mailpieces are identified by means of the digital fingerprint and are then manually sorted into the correct storage containers based on the correct distribution route. The invention as described herein contributes to minimizing this manual sorting process by optimizing the registration and identification of mailpieces during the initial pass. Through the use of advanced technologies, such as capturing digital images and generating unique digital fingerprints, mailpieces are accurately and reliably identified during the sorting process.

[0031] In one embodiment of the method, it comprises a step of automatically identifying mailpieces with unusual characteristics during the pass, such as anomalous shapes, dimensions, or weights, and applying an automated process to manually inspect and correct these mailpieces before they are sorted further.

[0032] In one embodiment of the method, it comprises a step of analyzing patterns and trends in the historical data of the database relating to the distribution routes and delivery performance, and using this analysis to optimize future distribution routes and improve efficiency.

[0033] The use of historical data can also contribute to the flexibility of the system by making it possible to adapt the distribution routes based on changes in the patterns of the mailpieces. This can contribute to the adaptability of the system to changing circumstances and can make it possible to optimize the sorting process despite changes in the distribution patterns of the mailpieces.

Claims

1. A method for sorting mailpieces in a sorting machine, wherein the sorting machine comprises sorting outlets with corresponding storage containers, which method comprises: a) performing a single sorting pass wherein during this pass a digital image of a mailpiece with address details is captured and wherein one or more parameters of the mailpiece are determined simultaneously; b) reading the address details based on the digital image of the mailpiece; c) generating a unique digital fingerprint for each mailpiece and storing this fingerprint in a database, and linking the digital image, the address details, and the one or more parameters generated in steps a) and b) of the mailpiece to the digital fingerprint; d) matching the fingerprint of the mailpiece with a database comprising historical data regarding address details and distribution routes of mailpieces, wherein a distribution route is selected for each mailpiece based on the historical data; and e) pre-sorting each mailpiece into the designated storage container of an identified distribution route.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the address of the mailpiece is recognized and captured by optical character recognition (OCR) or similar technology.

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-2, wherein the historical data in the database is updated on the basis of new input and results obtained for processed mailpieces.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the parameters determined in step a) can be: the length, width, weight, and thickness of the mailpieces.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-4, wherein billing data is generated based on the parameters.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-5, wherein the method comprises a step of forwarding the mailpiece to the selected distribution route for further processing and delivery.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-6, wherein the method comprises a step of f) manually sorting out mailpieces that were not correctly registered during the pass, wherein mailpieces are identified by means of the digital fingerprint and are then manually sorted into the correct storage containers based on the correct distribution route.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-7, wherein the method further comprises: g) Automatically identifying mailpieces with unusual characteristics during the pass, such as anomalous shapes, dimensions, or weights, and applying an automated process to manually inspect and correct these mailpieces before they are sorted further.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the method further comprises: h) Analyzing patterns and trends in the historical data of the database relating to the distribution routes and delivery performance, and using this analysis to optimize future distribution routes and improve efficiency.

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