System and method for creating a manifest

Abstract

A system and method for creating a baggage manifest is provided, the method including: acquiring, by at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an origin hard-copy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hard-copy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the origin hard-copy bag tag being issued to a passenger's checked-in baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof; accessing, by the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and checking, by the at least one processor, the return baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, into a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application Nos. 18 / 514,015, 18 / 514,826, 18 / 514,195, 18 / 514,877, 18 / 514,914, 18 / 514,937, 18 / 514,924, 18 / 514,295, 18 / 515,004, 18 / 514,369, and 18 / 515,060, all filed November 20, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 543,667, entitled "System and Method for Creating a Luggage Manifest," filed October 11, 2023. This application is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 197,840, entitled "Multi-Modal Transportation Baggage Screening and Image Sharing System," filed May 16, 2023. This application is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 311,566, entitled "Multi-Leg Travel Baggage Tracking," filed May 3, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 201,908, entitled "Return Leg Remote Passenger Check-In from Bag Tag Identifiers," filed May 25, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 332,377, entitled "Digital Recreation of Original Bag Tag Identifier," filed June 9, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 337,288, entitled "Method and System for Baggage Check-in," filed June 19, 2023.Each of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 18 / 337,288, 18 / 332,377, 18 / 201,908, and 18 / 311,566 directly claims the benefit of priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 104,359 (now U.S. Patent No. 11,682,241), entitled "Return Leg Remote Passenger Check-In," filed February 1, 2023, and for the avoidance of doubt, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 311,566 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 104,359, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to asset management, and more particularly to systems and methods for extracting otherwise discarded data and reusing it to reduce data entry. [Background technology]

[0003] Mobile carriers generally offer passengers the ability to check in baggage packed with their personal items, with or without a baggage fee. The baggage is often weighed to determine whether an additional baggage fee is required. The baggage is then tagged by the airline with a printed bag tag. Each mobile carrier may have its own format for printing bag tags at the mobile carrier counter. This process consumes the human resources of personnel working behind the counter to finalize passenger check-in, print boarding passes, process baggage, and print and attach bag tags. Airline mobile carriers have also invested in kiosk machines that allow passengers to print their own bag tags, freeing up time for counter attendants. This allows passengers to print and attach printed bag tags without using the human resources of a counter attendant.

[0004] According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the average daily passenger count for fiscal year 2021 was approximately 1.6 million. In fiscal year 2019, the average daily passenger count was approximately 2.9 million. Some of these passengers are returning from trips. Additionally, some of the return passengers are returning from cruises or large resorts.

[0005] Many attempts have been made to reduce the costs of baggage handling, particularly baggage handling, passenger departure, and check-in for return flights from large-scale lodging facilities. To simplify baggage handling during transit, passengers are offered the option of selecting services from third-party vendors to collect passengers and / or baggage as needed and transport the baggage to the airport. Baggage may be collected from any location, such as a home, office, hotel, etc., and / or delivered to any location identified by the passenger without the passenger needing to be present.

[0006] Another attempt at handling baggage involves the cross-use of employees at lodging facilities such as hotels. One of the biggest drawbacks of cross-use of employees is that these employees are unavailable for other tasks that may otherwise arise for passengers who are still enjoying the amenities of the lodging facility. In recent years, COVID-19 has made hiring more employees a challenge. Furthermore, employee costs have risen. At some locations, such as cruise ships, extra employees to handle additional tasks are not only cost-prohibitive, but also reduce cruise revenue by replacing paying passengers with hired employees. The functions of printing bag tags and boarding passes occupy areas on cruise ships that could be used for passenger accommodation or additional revenue opportunities.

[0007] Some baggage handling services issue a valet receipt or tag to be placed on the baggage. This process also requires that the baggage receive a printed IATA bag tag with a bag tag identifier instead of a valet receipt or tag. This process can be cost-prohibitive for competing accommodation businesses competing for customers. Overall, baggage handling services require passengers to order the service using a website or mobile application, enter various passenger information that may be entered incorrectly, and pay a fee. Passengers can remotely check in for their flights by providing all necessary flight information for their travel itinerary in advance using a website or mobile application. While this process appears benign, data entry errors can occur, which, combined with the additional costs of baggage handling and temporary valet tickets, can be very costly.

[0008] In most cases, after the passenger reaches their destination, the bag tag is removed and discarded to make room for a bag tag on the return leg of travel. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The average ocean liner cruise ship has a passenger capacity of approximately 3,000. Some larger cruise ships have a passenger capacity of 5,400. Each passenger returning home using an airline transfer carrier must check in for their return flight. Cruise ship personnel handle the pre-check-in process and / or baggage bag check-in and baggage bag count during processing for the return flight. However, this process consumes valuable, limited human resources available on the cruise ship for disembarkation. To address these challenges, a system and process is needed that is cost- and time-efficient and easily usable by any passenger. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, wherein the origin hardcopy bag tag is issued to a passenger's checked-in baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the return flight baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, with a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

[0011] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0012] The DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0013] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0014] Obtaining the image data may include capturing, by an imaging device, at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, and communicating, by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device, the at least one image to a network interface coupled to the at least one processor.

[0015] The method may further include performing image processing on the at least one image, by at least one of the at least one processor, to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; and creating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence of the optically recognized printed text of the printed passenger information for a return flight by the specified return airline mobile carrier.

[0016] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0017] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of the airline code or airline name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0018] The method may further include, prior to step c), d) autonomously creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for the return travel segment with the designated return airline travel carrier; and e) repeating a)-b) and d) for a plurality of passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations to autonomously form a manifest file.

[0019] During check-in, the passenger may be checked in, and the method may further include obtaining boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight during check-in, and communicating, by the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to the passenger's electronic communication device.

[0020] The method may further include merging accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, where the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

[0021] During check-in, the baggage item may be checked in, and the method may further include printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight for the checked-in baggage item.

[0022] The method may further include, after step b) and before step c), scanning the IATA license plate number barcode on the origin hard copy bag tag and accessing passenger return flight information stored in one of the baggage manifest or the passenger manifest for use in step c).

[0023] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, wherein the at least one memory stores at least one instruction, and the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: a) obtain image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag, to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier. a) an origin hard copy bag tag has been issued to the passenger's checked-in baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a passenger name record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) checking in the return flight baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, to the designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

[0024] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0025] The DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0026] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0027] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain image data by performing image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag, convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence, and create a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

[0028] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to perform image processing by optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0029] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to perform image processing by executing at least one instruction to optically recognize text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0030] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to: d) autonomously create a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information prior to check-in of a baggage item or passenger, where the passenger manifest record may include data for check-in of the baggage item, passenger, or combination thereof, with a designated return travel carrier for the return travel segment; and e) repeat a)-b) and d) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations to autonomously form a manifest file.

[0031] During check-in, the passenger may be checked in, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to check the passenger into a designated return mobile carrier for a return flight, obtain boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight, and communicate the boarding pass information to the passenger's electronic communication device.

[0032] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to merge accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and form a master inventory file based on the inventory file and the accommodation data, where the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

[0033] The system may further include a printing device. c) During check-in, a baggage item may be checked in, and the at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause the printing device to print a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the check-in baggage item for the return flight.

[0034] The at least one processor may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to: scan an IATA license plate number barcode on the origin hard copy bag tag before b) and before c), wherein the printed document may include at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hard copy bag tag or a created marker having the IATA license plate number associated with the origin hard copy bag tag; and access passenger return flight information stored in one of the baggage manifest or the passenger manifest for use in c).

[0035] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method, the method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag, to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being associated with a passenger's checked-in baggage item; the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a passenger name record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, or a passenger name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage item, a passenger, or a combination thereof, for the return flight with a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger return flight information.

[0036] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0037] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, and a passenger name.

[0038] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may further include passenger-related information or airline-related information included on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0039] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, obtaining image data may include capturing, by an imaging device, at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, and communicating, by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device, the at least one image to a network interface coupled to the at least one processor.

[0040] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for a return flight with the specified return airline mobile carrier.

[0041] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0042] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0043] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, prior to step c), d) autonomously creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for the return travel segment with the designated return airline travel carrier; and e) repeating a)-b) and d) for a plurality of passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations to autonomously form a manifest file.

[0044] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, during check-in, a passenger may be checked in, and the method may further include, during check-in, obtaining boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to the passenger's electronic communication device.

[0045] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include merging accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, where the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each of a plurality of passengers.

[0046] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, during check-in, a baggage item may be checked in, and the method may further include printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the check-in baggage item for the return flight.

[0047] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, after step b) and before step c), scanning an IATA license plate number barcode on the origin hard-copy bag tag, wherein the printed document may include at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hard-copy bag tag or a created marker having the IATA license plate number associated with the origin hard-copy bag tag, and accessing passenger return flight information stored in one of the baggage manifest or the passenger manifest for use in step c).

[0048] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for facilitating check-in of a passenger baggage item includes: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to the passenger baggage item, the DPI data record including machine-encoded text of an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; and b) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the DPI data record including machine-encoded text of an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number. a) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a B-type message including the passenger's passenger name record (PNR) number using machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier; b) retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the passenger's return flight with the designated return mobile carrier using the PNR data associated with the PNR number; and c) during the check-in window, checking in, by the at least one processor, at least one of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof with the designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight.

[0049] The method may further include analyzing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code, and identifying, by the at least one of the at least one processor, instructions for accessing the B-type message based on the airline code.

[0050] The retrieved check-in information may include the return leg flight time and the designated return mobile carrier.

[0051] The method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return flight of the baggage item, and printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return flight that matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for the passenger's checked-in return baggage item.

[0052] The method may further include, during check-in, checking in the passenger for a return flight, by at least one of the at least one processor; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, boarding pass information for the return flight; and communicating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

[0053] Obtaining the image data may include performing image processing on the at least one image, by at least one of the at least one processor, to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text, and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text for a return flight on the specified return mobile carrier.

[0054] The B-type message may include a package source message.

[0055] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system for facilitating check-in of a passenger baggage item comprises at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, wherein the at least one memory stores at least one instruction, and the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: a) cause at least one of the at least one processors to acquire image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag, to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, wherein the originating hardcopy bag tag is issued to the passenger baggage item, and the DPI data record is linked to an airline mobile carrier in accordance with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards; a) causing at least one of the at least one processor to access a B-type message including a passenger name record (PNR) number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier using the machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number; c) causing at least one of the at least one processor to retrieve check-in information for the passenger's return flight with the designated return mobile carrier using the PNR data associated with the PNR number; and d) causing at least one of the at least one processor to check-in the return baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof with the designated return mobile carrier during the check-in window based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight.

[0056] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause at least one of the at least one processor to analyze the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code, and to cause the at least one of the at least one processor to identify instructions for accessing a B-type message based on the airline code.

[0057] The retrieved check-in information may include the return leg flight time and the designated return mobile carrier.

[0058] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause at least one of the at least one processor to obtain airline bag tag information for the return flight of the baggage item during check-in, and to cause the printer to print a new bag tag for the return flight that matches the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate of the passenger's checked-in return baggage item.

[0059] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to, during check-in, cause at least one of the at least one processor to check in the passenger for a return flight, cause the at least one of the at least one processor to obtain boarding pass information for the return flight, and cause the at least one of the at least one processor to communicate the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

[0060] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause at least one of the at least one processor to perform image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text, and to cause at least one of the at least one processor to create a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text for a return flight on the specified return mobile carrier.

[0061] The B-type message may include a package source message.

[0062] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method for facilitating check-in of a passenger baggage item, the method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processors, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag, to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to the passenger baggage item, the DPI data record including a mechanical link to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; the encoded text includes the IATA license plate number; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a B-type message including the passenger's passenger name record (PNR) number using the machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier; c) retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the passenger's return flight with the designated return mobile carrier using the PNR data associated with the PNR number; and d) during the check-in window, checking in at least one of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof with the designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight, by the at least one processor.

[0063] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include analyzing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code, and identifying, by the at least one of the at least one processor, instructions for accessing the B-type message based on the airline code.

[0064] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the retrieved check-in information may include a return leg flight time and a designated return mobile carrier.

[0065] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return flight of the baggage item, and printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return flight that matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for the passenger's checked-in return baggage item.

[0066] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, during check-in, checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the passenger for a return flight; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, boarding pass information for the return flight; and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

[0067] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, acquiring the image data may include: performing image processing on the at least one image, by at least one of the at least one processor, to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text; and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text for a return flight on the specified return mobile carrier.

[0068] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the B-type message may include a package source message.

[0069] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a method includes: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) autonomously creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in with a designated return mobile carrier for a return travel segment of a baggage item, passenger, or combination thereof; and d) repeating a)-c) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations and autonomously forming a manifest file.

[0070] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0071] The DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0072] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0073] Obtaining the image data may include capturing, by an imaging device, at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag or the printed certificate, and communicating, by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device, the at least one image to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

[0074] The method may further include performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence, and creating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return travel segment by the specified return mobile carrier.

[0075] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0076] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of the airline code or airline name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0077] The method may further include merging accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, where the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

[0078] The method may further include checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item with a return flight carrier for the return flight.

[0079] During check-in, the baggage item may be checked in, and the method may further include printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight for the baggage item.

[0080] The method may further include electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, from the airline transfer carrier an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record, wherein printing of a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by acquiring the OH-BTI or creating the digital BTI data record.

[0081] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor and storing at least one instruction, the at least one processor executing the at least one instruction to: a) obtain image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger baggage item, the DPI data record being linked to an international a) accessing passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) autonomously creating a passenger manifest record from the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in with a designated return mobile carrier for the return travel segment of the baggage item, passenger, or combination thereof; and d) repeating a)-c) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations and autonomously forming a manifest file.

[0082] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0083] The DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0084] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0085] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to perform image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence, and create a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

[0086] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to optically recognize text of a PNR number in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognize text of a passenger name in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0087] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to optically recognize text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0088] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to merge accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and form a master inventory file based on the inventory file and the accommodation data, where the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

[0089] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to check in the baggage item for the return flight with the return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

[0090] The system may further include a printing device, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause the printing device to print a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the baggage item for a return flight based on the baggage item being checked in.

[0091] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to electronically retrieve, by at least one electronic retrieval device, from the airline transfer carrier an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record, wherein printing of a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by retrieval of the OH-BTI or creation of the digital BTI data record.

[0092] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, causing the at least one processor to perform a method, the method including: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag, to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger baggage item, the DPI data record including at least an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a passenger booking record (PNR), a a) including a number, an airline code, an airline name, or a passenger name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) autonomously creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in with a designated return mobile carrier for a return travel segment of the baggage item, passenger, or combination thereof; and d) repeating a)-c) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations and autonomously forming a manifest file.

[0093] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0094] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0095] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the DPI data record may further include passenger-related information or airline-related information contained on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0096] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, obtaining image data may include capturing, by an imaging device, at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, and communicating, by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device, the at least one image to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

[0097] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return travel segment by the specified return mobile carrier.

[0098] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0099] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0100] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include merging accommodation data from the accommodation with an inventory file and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, wherein the accommodation data may include a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

[0101] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item with a return flight carrier for the return flight.

[0102] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, during check-in, a baggage item may be checked in, and the method may further include printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the baggage item's return flight.

[0103] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag from the airline transfer carrier to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record, wherein printing of a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by acquiring the OH-BTI or creating the digital BTI data record.

[0104] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, wherein the origin hardcopy bag tag is issued to the passenger's baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight associated with the passenger return flight information.

[0105] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0106] The DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0107] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0108] Obtaining the image data may include capturing, by an imaging device, at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag or the printed certificate, and communicating, by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device, the at least one image to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

[0109] The method may further include performing image processing, by at least one of the at least one processor, on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and converting the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence, and creating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for a return flight on the specified return mobile carrier.

[0110] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of a PNR number in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognizing text of a passenger name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0111] Performing image processing may further include optically recognizing text of the airline code or airline name in the at least one image and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0112] Accessing the passenger return flight information can include accessing a B-type message using the IATA license plate number of the DPI data record, the B-type message including the PNR number.

[0113] The B-type message may include a package source message.

[0114] The method may further include checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item for the return flight with the return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

[0115] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system comprises at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, wherein the at least one memory stores at least one instruction, and the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to: obtain image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, wherein the origin hardcopy bag tag is issued to a passenger baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof; access passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and cause a printing device to print a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight associated with the passenger return flight information.

[0116] The DPI data record may include a PNR number.

[0117] The DPI data record may further include an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof.

[0118] The DPI data record may further include passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the originating hardcopy bag tag that links to passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

[0119] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to perform image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence, and create a DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

[0120] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to optically recognize text of a PNR number in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number, and optically recognize text of a passenger name in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger name.

[0121] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to optically recognize text of an airline code or airline name in the at least one image and form a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or airline name.

[0122] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to access passenger return flight information by accessing a B-type message using the IATA license plate number of the DPI data record, the B-type message including the PNR number.

[0123] B-type messages may include a Baggage Source Message (BSM).

[0124] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to check in the baggage item for the return flight with the return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

[0125] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, please refer to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0126] [Figure 1A] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for creating at least one baggage manifest triggered by a Termination B type message, according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for checking in passengers for a return travel leg, according to one embodiment. [Figure 1C] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for checking in passenger luggage for a return leg of travel after disembarking from accommodation, according to one embodiment. [Figure 1D] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for creating at least one baggage manifest triggered by a non-terminal B-type message, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 shows a partial view of a conventional airline bag tag of the prior art. [Figure 2B] 1 shows a conventional airline bag tag marker of the prior art. [Figure 2C] An example of attaching a bag tag marker to a passenger's luggage is shown. [Figure 2D] FIG. 1 shows a partial view of another conventional airline bag tag of the prior art. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a scanner according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates an electronic capture device capturing an image of an origin hardcopy bag tag, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3C]1 illustrates an electronic capture device capturing an image of an origin hardcopy bag tag, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3D] 1 illustrates an electronic capture device capturing an image of a printed document having at least a portion of passenger information on an origin hardcopy bag tag, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3E] 1 illustrates an electronic capture device with a displayed message, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a programming module for checking in baggage items or baggage items and passengers using origin bag tag identifiers for a return flight and generating a manifest for boarding a travel segment, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a programming module for generating a manifest for checking in a baggage item or baggage items and passengers and boarding a travel segment using digitized origin passenger information associated with a first mode travel carrier on an origin hard copy printed bag tag, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4C] 1 illustrates a block diagram of programming modules for checking in passenger baggage, generating a manifest for boarding a travel segment, and generating an extended B-type message, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in a baggage item, a passenger, or a passenger and a baggage item, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of programming modules for generating a master inventory, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a computing system according to one embodiment. [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in luggage for a passenger leaving a lodging facility, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in baggage items or for baggage items and passengers to exit a lodging facility, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9A]1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for merging passenger manifest and accommodation information, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for merging passenger manifest and accommodation information, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9C] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for initiating an extended B-type message according to one embodiment. [Figure 9D] 1 illustrates a method for generating a generic B-type message for a passenger's return route, according to one embodiment. [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating return flight information from a passenger name record (PNR) using a PNR number captured from scanned data, according to one embodiment. [Figure 10B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating return flight information from a PNR using a PNR number captured from imaged data, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for creating a Digital Personal Information (DPI) data record according to one embodiment. [Figure 12A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing image processing of image data associated with an origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, according to one embodiment. [Figure 12B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing image processing of image data associated with an origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, according to one embodiment. [Figure 12C] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing image processing of image data associated with an origin hardcopy bag tag or printed certificate, according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for forming a machine-encoded text sequence of an IATA license plate, according to one embodiment. [Figure 14A] 1 shows a conventional Baggage Source Message (BSM) for an airline carrier. [Figure 14B]1 illustrates a simulated BSM according to one embodiment. [Figure 14C] 1 illustrates an extended (generic) B-type message for multi-modal travel and overnight stays and recycling of origin bag tags, according to one embodiment. [Figure 14D] 1 illustrates an extended (generic) B-type message for a return flight according to one embodiment. [Figure 14C] 1 illustrates an extended (generic) B-type message for multi-modal travel and overnight stays and recycling of originating flight bag tags, according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a process for generating a baggage authentication indicia to avoid additional baggage screening or an indication that screening is complete, according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 illustrates a Security Screening Integrated Assistant (SSIA) system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17A] 1 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) for retrieving at least one security screening image, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17B] 17B illustrates the GUI of FIG. 17A for screening at least one security screening image, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17C] 17B illustrates the GUI of FIG. 17A for screening at least one security screening image with a screener, according to one embodiment. [Figure 18A] 10 shows a flowchart of a method for second mode movement screening according to one embodiment. [Figure 18B] 10 shows a flowchart of a method for second mode movement screening according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] 1 shows a flowchart of a method for detecting the presence of a possible prohibited object, according to one embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a programming module for analyzing security screening images, according to one embodiment. [Figure 21] 1 illustrates a conceptual messaging graphic user interface on a mobile phone conveying the passenger's luggage movement process. [Figure 22] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for calculating bag fees, according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in a baggage item when a bag tag and / or marker is missing, according to one embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a Baggage Brain (LIB) programming module according to one embodiment. [Figure 25] 1 illustrates a graphical user interface on a mobile communication device that captures passenger identification, according to one embodiment. [Figure 26A] 1 illustrates a method of file handling for an integrated security screening process for baggage items that need to be processed through a security screening station, according to one embodiment. [Figure 26B] 1 illustrates a method for baggage item status reporting and handling for an integrated security screening process for baggage items after they have been processed at a security screening station, according to one embodiment. [Figure 27] 1 illustrates a smart luggage moving system for multi-modal travel and accommodation according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in passenger baggage according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of linking multi-modal travel and lodging data to enhanced data according to one embodiment. [Figure 30] 1 illustrates a block diagram of linking originating flight multi-modal travel and lodging data to extended data according to one embodiment. [Figure 31] 1 illustrates a system for digitizing baggage storage and baggage check-in according to one embodiment. [Figure 32] 1 illustrates an example of a confirmed itinerary for an airline flight according to one embodiment. [Figure 33] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating a simulated package source message, according to one embodiment. [Figure 34] 1 illustrates a method for recording a passenger itinerary according to one embodiment. [Figure 35] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a process for tracking baggage items prior to loading the baggage items onto an aircraft, according to one embodiment. [Figure 36] 1 illustrates a mobile communication device displaying a FIND MY application, according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0127] Embodiments are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to designate similar or equivalent elements. The drawings are not drawn to scale and are provided merely to illustrate aspects disclosed herein. Certain disclosed aspects are described below with reference to non-limiting example applications for illustration. It should be understood that numerous specific details, relationships, and methods are described to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. However, one skilled in the art will readily recognize that the disclosed embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods. In other instances, well-known structures or operations have not been shown in detail to avoid obscuring aspects disclosed herein. The embodiments are not limited by the illustrated order of acts or events, as some acts may occur in different orders and / or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts or events are required to implement a methodology in accordance with an embodiment.

[0128] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth broad ranges are approximations, the numerical values ​​set forth in the specific, non-limiting examples are reported as precisely as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein should be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a range "less than 10" can include any and all subranges between (and including) a minimum value of zero and a maximum value of 10, i.e., any and all subranges having a minimum value of zero or more and a maximum value of 10 or less, e.g., 1 to 4.

[0129] Package handling and delivery Providing a seamless and nearly error-free experience for handling and transporting baggage items as passengers travel along their journey provides passengers with an enjoyable and comfortable travel experience. Passengers know their destination, but their baggage items do not. Baggage items are physically handled and handed over from passengers to airline personnel with the 10-digit license plate attached. Furthermore, the original 10-digit IATA license plate may expire or be removed by the airport infrastructure before the passenger and their baggage need to be checked in for their return flight.

[0130] Beyond the airport The airline's infrastructure can generate a B-type message that is a Destination B-type message or a Destination Baggage Source Message (BSM), which can specify the destination airport and city where handling and movement of the baggage item will terminate, or another IATA-conformant message that specifies the destination airport and city where handling and movement of the baggage item will terminate, as described in IATA BSM "Recommended Practice 1745 Baggage Information Messages," Passenger Services Resolution Manual, June 2010, 30th Edition, pp. 1110-1205, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The IATA B-type message may include the 10-digit IATA license plate number and other information that associates the baggage item with the passenger.

[0131] The Departure Control System (DCS) controls various airline operations, including checking in baggage (i.e., baggage items) at the airport, generating passenger bag tag identifiers (BTIDs), and formatting the data for printing bag tags. Bag tags are formatted based on regulations issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and include, for example, a 10-digit license plate. Typically, one or more IATA Type B messages are created that contain the 10-digit license plate and flight information.

[0132] What has been thought of as trash (i.e., discarded airline bag tags) is in fact missing the link to cost-effective and time-efficient handling of luggage by mass accommodations such as, by way of non-limiting example, resorts and cruise lines.

[0133] As used herein, "positive passenger baggage matching" refers to international regulations used to determine whether a passenger's checked-in baggage boarded an aircraft for the flight. If the passenger is determined not to have boarded the flight, the passenger's baggage is removed from the aircraft. In the United States, Title 49, United States Code (USC), Section 44901, contains similar requirements. As can be seen, the "litter" at the end of a passenger's journey when they arrive at their destination holds valuable security information for lodging facilities such as resorts and cruise ships, as well as other modes of travel or vehicles following the airline flight.

[0134] Typically, passengers are prompted to remove their printed bag tags after collecting their luggage from the carousel at their destination. However, the original printed bag tags contain useful information, and instead of discarding the original printed bag tags, they can be used 1) as an alternative to printing and / or attaching temporary valet tags, and 2) for autonomous data entry and retrieval, freeing passengers or other employees from retrieving passenger personal information and return flight information.

[0135] Passenger luggage may be tagged with an adhesive or bingo marker from the airline carrier, which may also include an IATA license plate barcode. This marker may be placed anywhere on the luggage and may be used as a temporary valet tag or a replacement for printing and / or attaching a lost IATA bag tag. For example, an airline's IATA bag tag may be damaged or removed as a result of transportation through the airline's baggage handling system. Thus, airline baggage markers may be used in the processes described herein.

[0136] In some examples, airline IATA bag tags or other special-purpose bag tags may include a printed IATA license plate and / or a radio frequency identifier (RFID) that can be read by an RFID reader. However, RFID technology is only used approximately 10% of the time and is not widely available today. The systems and methods described herein may use RFID that is part of the bag tag, for example, particularly, as a non-limiting example, when the originally printed bag tag is damaged or otherwise unscannable with a barcode scanner. RFID is used because scanning a 10-digit license plate can be difficult for scanners throughout an airline's baggage handling system because the printed text may be damaged or the attached bag tag may be in a position that prevents barcode capture. The systems described herein can acquire the 10-digit license plate using an RFID reader in parallel with a barcode scanner or as needed.

[0137] In addition to using original IATA bag tags that have not been discarded as a replacement for valet tags, IATA bag tags can be used to automate the process so that it is less prone to data entry errors, less burdensome for passengers, time-saving and cost-effective.

[0138] Additionally, what was once considered trash may be converted into a smart bag tag in a non-airline infrastructure that holds passenger information and return flight information for transporting the passenger's baggage to the passenger's room or guest room at the passenger's accommodation, including a mechanism for remote check-in of the baggage item without the passenger needing to be present when the return flight bag tag is printed. The smart bag tag links the IATA license plate to the stored data for the return flight and a conduit for checking in the baggage item.

[0139] The system described herein employs a parallel method for acquiring baggage identifiable information to accommodate scenarios in which the IATA bag tag is damaged or lost, such that the 10-digit license plate number can be acquired without passenger or other employee input. For example, all passenger information, and particularly return flight information, can be acquired by scanning or imaging a non-discarded originating airline IATA bag tag (sometimes referred to herein as an “originating hardcopy bag tag”) and autonomously retrieving the passenger record and return flight information, e.g., for remote check-in of the baggage item and / or passenger for return home via a return flight. However, personally identifiable information (PII) can remain confidential and secure. The non-discarded originating printed IATA bag tag can be used as a machine-readable document to locate and track the baggage item through a smart baggage movement system independent of the airline infrastructure for part of the return journey home for multi-modal travel prior to the return flight.

[0140] Scanning of undiscarded bag tags may include scanning dockside at the accommodation facility such as a cruise line, scanning at the destination airport or intermediate mobile carrier upon arrival, scanning at any accommodation facility such as a hotel resort, and / or scanning at any location between the destination airport or intermediate mobile carrier and the accommodation facility.

[0141] In one or more embodiments, scanning all non-discarded bag tags may include scanning non-discarded bag tags at any mode of travel station before the baggage items are loaded onto a transportation vehicle (i.e., a van, train, bus, plane, or ferry).

[0142] Imaging of non-discarded bag tags may include imaging after the originating hard copy bag tag is printed, imaging dockside at the accommodation facility such as a cruise line, imaging at the destination airport or intermediate mobile carrier upon arrival, imaging at any accommodation facility such as a hotel resort, and / or imaging at any location between the destination airport or intermediate mobile carrier and the accommodation facility. Imaging may also include imaging a printed document having at least some of the information printed on the originating hard copy bag tag. This information may include BSM data or B-type message data, where the B-type message includes the PNR number.

[0143] In one or more embodiments, an image of a printed origin hardcopy bag tag may be captured having printed origin passenger information associated with the first mode mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag. The image may be captured any time after the origin hardcopy bag tag is printed, and the image may be acquired or captured by an imaging device, such as a smart communication device. The origin hardcopy bag tag may be printed using IATA guidelines for barcodes and 10-digit license plates, as well as other flight information. However, airlines may add other passenger / airline information to the bag tag template at the airline's discretion.

[0144] The original printed / paper bag tag from the first mode mobile carrier (e.g., airline) carries valuable information that can be used to automate the process for checking in passengers and / or baggage for the return travel leg by the first mode mobile carrier and / or to create a passenger record for an inventory to be used by a lodging facility. Instead of removing the original printed bag tag after arriving at the destination point associated with the lodging facility, the code embedded in the license plate on the original printed bag tag can be electronically captured, digitized, and used to match personal information, such as the passenger's name, associated with the passenger from the first mode mobile carrier with the passenger's name used or registered by the lodging facility or other onward travel vehicle.

[0145] Constructing a baggage or passenger manifest using passenger name record (PNR) numbers, passenger names, and / or IATA 10-digit license plates stores PII in a secure location without the need to transfer or access such information between entities other than what is visible to the naked eye, thereby maintaining the security of the PII.

[0146] In one or more embodiments, after the original bag tag is printed, the passenger information text associated with the first mode mobile carrier printed on the bag tag may be captured by an imaging device to capture the passenger's name without additional personal information or directly from the printed bag tag without PII associated with the passenger from the first mode mobile carrier. The printed text may be optically recognized and converted into machine-encoded text searchable to identify the airline code or airline name, passenger name record (PNR) number, passenger name, and / or IATA 10-digit license plate number.

[0147] Additionally, the license plate on the original printed bag tag (sometimes referred to herein as the "origin hard copy bag tag") can be used to autonomously capture the passenger's return flight information without the need for the passenger or accommodation employee to manually enter the return flight itinerary information for the baggage item or for both the baggage item and the passenger. For example, this can be accomplished by using the original printed bag tag from an airline carrier where the passenger is not present.

[0148] Additionally, the specific passenger / airline information on the originating hard copy bag tag can be used to autonomously retrieve return flight information for the baggage item or for both the passenger and baggage item without the need for the passenger or accommodation employee to manually enter the return flight itinerary information.

[0149] Integrated Security Screening Other modes of travel (i.e., moving vehicles) may screen baggage items boarding trains, buses, or cruise ships, or entering lodging, using screening technology that is less stringent than, different from, or of the same quality as the screening required by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for travel by air carriers. High-tech security screening images for travel by air carriers, as regulated by the TSA, can be used to reduce the number of screenings of baggage items by other modes of travel when there is a direct connection from a passenger departing an air carrier (first mode of travel) and beginning the next leg of travel on a second mode of travel (i.e., a second moving vehicle), or screening by a bus, train, cruise ship, another air carrier, lodging / resort, or government agency. These security screening images required by the TSA can be shared for analysis in accordance with regulations associated with either the other modes of travel or screening without reducing the effectiveness of the screening process. To maintain the integrity of the image-based travel mode analysis, correspondingly tagged baggage items remain in trusted custody until custody is transferred to the next moving vehicle (i.e., bus, train, cruise ship, secondary air carrier, or lodging / resort) and / or the next government agency for a border entry. Past problems can be solved by current methods and systems by using the IATA license plate and / or linked PNR number and / or passenger name to capture security images and data of the contents of the baggage item to expedite the processing of the baggage item through a security screening checkpoint at a customs or border crossing, without the need to transfer or access other PII associated with the passenger. The same IATA license plate and / or linked PNR number and / or passenger name can be used to construct manifests of other vehicles of travel and baggage manifests for handling and delivery of the baggage item, regardless of their owners.

[0150] As used herein, the terms "mode of travel" and "mode of transportation" may be used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms "mode of travel" and "mobile vehicle" may be used interchangeably. However, "mode of travel" and "mobile vehicle" may also include lodging facilities and resorts.

[0151] Although the description herein describes U.S. government regulatory agencies, other countries, or groups of countries bound by treaty, may also provide regulations to be followed for transportation security that require security screening of traveling vehicles, other destinations, or baggage items entering the country.

[0152] The processes and systems described herein for one-way travel also apply to reverse travel to return passengers to their homes.

[0153] FIG. 1A illustrates at least one baggage manifest 121 that may be triggered by a Termination B type message, in accordance with one or more embodiments. 1 …121 x 1B illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 for creating a terminal B-type message. The system 100 may facilitate the handling of baggage items, with or without a passenger, from a mobile carrier facility, such as an airport, to an accommodation facility 126 (FIG. 1B) or to a next mobile vehicle. A terminal B-type message is a B-type message that includes an IATA license plate and / or passenger name record (PNR) number.

[0154] In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may include a server 148. The system 100 may include a baggage manifest 121 for multiple accommodations local to a destination point (DP) 107, as shown and described below in connection with FIG. 1 …121 x Parallel streams of data can be used to create and deliver baggage items to and from a mobile carrier, such as a cruise ship, hotel, resort, train mobile carrier, bus mobile carrier, or rental car company. In one or more embodiments, the baggage items may be delivered to another designated address, such as a home address, a work address, or a designated address.

[0155] Each baggage item record file in the baggage manifest is an Electronic Baggage Brain (LIB) 2450 that is accessible by scanning the origin hard copy bag tag after leaving the airline or airport infrastructure, or after accessing the baggage manifest with a computing device, among other things. The baggage manifest may be stored on the server 148 or on a memory device connected to the server or computing device. The baggage manifest 121 1 …121 x The baggage manifest record within the airport may include a baggage item brain programming module 2400 (FIG. 24), which, when executed, generates an electronic baggage item brain to identify where the baggage item needs to be delivered or cleared without the owner needing to be present. The LIB programming module 2400 is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 24. The LIB programming module 2400 may be an example of turning a paper IATA bag into a smart bag tag. However, if the originating IATA bag tag is lost or damaged, the LIB programming module 2400 or LIB 2450 can make a bingo marker or other marker smart by linking a barcode or quick response (QR) code to stored baggage data. Additionally, any marker created or affixed to a baggage item with a unique identifier tied to an originating hard-copy bag tag can be made smart by linking the unique identifier to stored baggage data outside of the airport infrastructure.

[0156] In one or more embodiments, the 10-digit IATA license plate can be the primary key or link index key for determining routing and delivery data for a baggage item without the passenger having to be present to check in the baggage item for its return flight or another leg of travel with the passenger. Each baggage item record can link the passenger's travel itinerary to the baggage item, so that the baggage item can move periodically, seamlessly, independently, and in parallel along its owner's travel itinerary.

[0157] The server 148 may include programming modules 149. One or more of the programming modules 149 may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware.

[0158] In one or more embodiments, the server 148 may communicate with the passenger's mobile communication device 15 and the mobile information system 108. The mobile information system 108 is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 1B. In one or more embodiments, the server 148 may communicate with the mobile communication device 15 to receive the originating hard copy bag tag or a printed certificate having at least some of the information printed on the originating hard copy bag tag, as described in more detail in connection with FIG. 1B.

[0159] In one or more embodiments, an image of the data printed on the e-paper can be taken using e-ink displayed on the RFID device or RFID bag tag display device. The layout format of the bag tag or BSM data placed on the RFID display may vary from carrier to carrier. In this arrangement, the image data can be converted into machine-encoded text.

[0160] Generating a BSM The DCS can initiate the process of creating the data used to print the origin hard copy bag tag when a passenger checks in for a flight. This may occur at the check-in window. In some cases, the check-in window is 24 hours before flight time. However, not all passengers check in early. As a result, the arrival of BSMs in the system 100 can vary.

[0161] For airline mobile carriers, IATA bag tags include bag tags with a standardized series of numbers or bar codes to identify baggage items and match baggage items to passengers. If a passenger does not board a flight, the passenger's baggage items may not be loaded onto the aircraft even if they are checked in. In some cases, the baggage items may be lost. In such cases, the baggage handling system generates a corresponding Type B message.

[0162] As should be understood, BSM data can change after the BSM data is created, for example, as a result of normal operation of the mobile carrier, passenger changes, and / or inclement weather. Thus, the original BSM created at check-in may not be the same as the destination BSM transmitted to system 100. BSM data changes as baggage items move through the airport infrastructure.

[0163] Airport Terminal B Type Message Data The mobile information system 108 can generate a B-type message 152 when a baggage item (i.e., passenger baggage 138 in FIG. 1B ) is checked in for the passenger. The mobile information system 108 can include a flight manifest 151 stored in a database associated with an airline carrier's computer system, for example. The flight manifest is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 23 . A passenger may have more than one baggage item to check in. This process is essentially repeated for all baggage items checked in for the passenger. Data from the B-type message from the airport can be used on an ongoing basis outside the airport infrastructure to build a manifest for one or more of a second travel mode, a security integrated assistant, and / or baggage handling and delivery. The continuous use can be in the form of a unified B-type message format via generic B-type messaging communicated using Internet Protocol over the Internet or a web-based network.

[0164] As a non-limiting example, the B-type message may be a Baggage Source Message (BSM), as described in more detail with respect to FIG. 14A. For example, a printed origin hardcopy bag tag, as described with respect to FIG. 2A, may include various information contained in the BSM. A mobile information system 108 or other computer system associated with an airline carrier may communicate the terminating BSM to or through the destination / terminating airport. The baggage handling system may generate other B-type messages in accordance with standard operating procedures for baggage handling at airports. While this disclosure describes a terminating BSM, any other current or future terminating B-type message having a destination code, IATA license plate, passenger name, and PNR number may be used.

[0165] Mobile information system 108 may include a B-type message communicator 153 configured to communicate the destination BSM to server 148. In one or more embodiments, B-type message 152 and B-type message communicator 153 may be associated with a computer system or server system associated with an airline mobile carrier. In one or more embodiments, the B-type message may include other B-type messages, including BSMs created for baggage items checked in for an impending return flight. The B-type message may also include other messages indicating the status of the baggage items. The B-type messages may be retrieved by server 148 via an upload or download operation.

[0166] Server 148 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause reception of a B-type message, such as a terminating BSM, by terminating B-type message receiver 158 of programming module 149. Terminating B-type message receiver 158 is a terminating BSM receiver. The terminating BSM may, for example, be for an air carrier and / or baggage handling system at an airport where a flight carrying a checked-in baggage item terminates at a final airport destination, at which the baggage item leaves the airport infrastructure. Terminated airport coding in a terminating BSM is described in connection with FIG. 14A.

[0167] Printed BSM image data The programming module 149 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the image data receiver 402B to receive image data, as described in more detail in connection with FIG. 4B. The image data is from the passenger's mobile communication device 15. Instead of the mobile communication device, another computing device associated with the passenger may be used. For example, the passenger may email the image data to themselves, for example, by logging in to a public computing device and sending the image data to the server 148.

[0168] Prior to travel, passengers may sign up for the baggage handling service using a personal computing device or mobile communication device 15. The system 100 may provide a registration graphical user interface that allows passengers to register for the service. Registration may include providing biometric information to confirm or verify the user / passenger's identity. The biometric information may be used to unlock passenger identifiable information, such as driver's license data and passport information, stored by the system 100.

[0169] The receiver 402B may include a network interface and may extract passenger information so that the baggage item images may be correlated with passenger records and / or baggage item records associated with the appropriate passenger.

[0170] The text on the originating hardcopy bag tag and / or printed document includes at least a portion of the BSM data. A passenger who has checked in and transferred custody to the airline or airport infrastructure can take an image of the printed BSM data and submit the printed BSM data as evidence that the passenger and baggage are checked in and boarding the flight for the first leg or first mode of travel. In one or more embodiments, the passenger can print the originating hardcopy bag tag at a kiosk. The passenger can take an image of the printed originating bag tag from the kiosk and / or a marker or receipt included on the end of the originating hardcopy bag tag or included in the boarding pass jacket or folder. In one or more embodiments, the marker or receipt may be texted or emailed to the passenger. The passenger can provide printed BSM data, such as an IATA license plate number (i.e., text, email, or image data), to system 100 to capture or recognize such information. As used herein, the terms “IATA license plate number” and “IATA license plate” may be used interchangeably.

[0171] In one or more embodiments, the image may initiate the creation of a manifest record in the baggage manifest for the particular passenger.

[0172] For example, a passenger may submit a photo of their IATA bag tag, which may include a 10-digit license plate, also in the BSM. This provides a link between the passenger and their baggage item via the 10-digit license plate. The BSM also includes a PNR number, which provides access to the passenger's return flight information. The PNR number may be a super PNR number and may provide information about accommodations, car rentals, and other travel information.

[0173] The BSM may be used to obtain a PNR number. The PNR number may then be used to obtain and verify passenger itinerary information for routing baggage items from the destination to the correct accommodation. Furthermore, the merged data from the passenger and the BSM from the airline mobile carrier may be used to verify baggage items and delivery instructions without the passenger's presence by using the electronic BSM and the originating hard copy bag tag.

[0174] As described in more detail in connection with Figures 2A and 3B-3C, the origin hardcopy bag tag may include the PNR number and the passenger's name. The printed text in the image can be converted into searchable machine-encoded text. The information in the image from the passenger and the information from the BSM can, for example, be correlated and verified to create a key fob from the origin hardcopy bag tag that can track the baggage item outside of the airport infrastructure until the baggage item is checked in for a return flight. Once the baggage item is checked in for a return flight, a new IATA license plate is assigned to the baggage item. The LIB 2450 is then updated to link the IATA license plate to delivery and collection locations and / or government security locations to the new printed IATA license plate.

[0175] Each Manifest MX may have some populated information associated with passengers (arrival clients) expected to arrive on a particular day to continue travel to or from a lodging facility. Each Manifest MX may be associated with a particular lodging facility, resort, or vehicle of travel. A Manifest MX may include an entry for an arrival client to deliver baggage to a home address or other designated address.

[0176] Security Screening Assistant Trigger - Next Moving Vehicle A destination B-type message with a matching passenger name can be used to trigger the Security Screening Integrated Assistant System 190 (FIG. 16) to expedite or avoid security screening of the next moving vehicle.

[0177] The inventors have determined that the IATA license plate captured for use as a link key to airline information for passenger repatriation and to construct a baggage manifest record can also be used to access security images and data previously captured by security screening devices used to clear baggage items for boarding on air carriers.

[0178] After check-in and custodial transport, baggage items are sent through an automated conveyor system in the First Security Screening Machine System (FSSMS) 40 in the baggage handling area before being loaded into the aircraft's cargo hold. The initial screening process can be performed by large X-ray machines, as described in more detail in FIG. 16. These machines are designed to detect a variety of substances, including explosives and other contraband. Baggage is screened using a dual-energy X-ray system, which allows security personnel to distinguish between organic and inorganic materials based on their atomic number. This helps identify potentially dangerous materials. If the X-ray scan shows anything suspicious, the bag is diverted for further inspection. This typically involves a physical inspection by trained security personnel and may also involve the use of more advanced scanning technology, such as a CT (Computer Tomography) scanner (i.e., CT imaging machines 45, 50), which can provide a more detailed 3D image of the bag's contents. In some cases, explosive trace detection (ETD) machines can also be used. These machines can detect traces of explosives on the outside of the bag or on items inside the bag. In one or more embodiments, screening can involve swabbing the bag or item and then analyzing the swab for any explosive residue.

[0179] Security images, such as 3D images, are stored in non-transitory tangible memory for security screening images and data 113. The FSSMS 40 may be performed by or for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or another authorized contractor. However, the items allowed for check-in baggage items may differ from the baggage items allowed on board a cruise ship, the baggage items allowed at a resort, or the baggage items allowed in some countries.

[0180] The government agency that manages airline security screening is the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Cruise ship screening processes, on the other hand, may be regulated by the Coast Guard or DHS's Customs and Border Protection (CBP). DHS may allow cruise ship companies to have additional rules, provided the companies meet minimum government regulations. The TSA may also regulate baggage screening on trains and bus carriers in the rail system.

[0181] As a non-limiting example, the Security Screening Integrated Assistant (SSIA) system 190, described in connection with FIG. 16 , can be used to assist passengers in avoiding security screening independently performed by cruise ships, train stations, bus stations, resorts, or lodging facilities, allowing secure custody of baggage items from the cargo holds of air carriers so they can be transferred to trusted custody handlers to maintain the security integrity of the baggage items for their next mode of travel. This can reduce security screening line processing at cruise ships, train stations, bus stations, resorts, or lodging facilities. More importantly, reducing the processing of previously screened baggage items in trusted custody can limit the need to modify security screening algorithms to speed up processing lines or reduce the effectiveness of security screening due to long lines that cause passengers to miss connecting flights or other travel legs to clear customs.

[0182] The security screening trigger generator 170 can, for example, identify baggage items that need to undergo security screening for the next moving vehicle based on a match between passengers in the manifest and the destination BSM. The security screening trigger generator 170 can, for example, generate a trigger to expedite the processing of image and data files from the originating air carrier's FSSMS 40 before the baggage items are unloaded from the air carrier's cargo hold. This can save valuable machine resources by avoiding the need to unnecessarily re-image baggage items that already have TSA-quality images that have useful information for the next moving vehicle.

[0183] The system 100 generates a baggage manifest 121 for each accommodation based on information from the passenger correlated with the received destination BSM associated with the travel information system 108. 1 …121 x The baggage manifest 121 may be configured to build a 1 …121 x may identify handling and delivery instructions for baggage items arriving at a mobile carrier, such as an airline mobile carrier, or being picked up at a destination point and delivered to an accommodation 126 (FIG. 1B), such as a cruise ship, hotel, or resort. 1 …121 x The baggage manifest record may identify handling and delivery instructions for the baggage item's round-trip experience, including any security clearance points mandated by a government agency (i.e., Customs and Border Patrol or Coast Guard) or entity. The baggage manifest record may indicate baggage fees or baggage fee exemptions associated with the air carrier for the specified return flight. The baggage manifest may include a LIB2450 for each baggage item in a specific moving vehicle, or a general manifest for home address or designated address delivery.

[0184] Airport Terminal B Type Message Processing System 100 may include a non-transitory tangible memory device 162 for storing received B-type messages (i.e., destination BSMs). Programming module 149 may include a B-type message receiver 158 and a B-type message processing module 160. Each received B-type message may be processed by B-type message processing module 160. B-type message processing module 160 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause B-type message sorter 164 to sort the B-type messages and separate the destination BSMs. Sorting may include sorting by one or more of destination location or airport location code, day, arrival time, or travel carrier. This may allow resource scheduling for handling baggage volumes to be established so that the baggage item's journey experience is on schedule and accurate according to the baggage item's electronic brain.

[0185] Type B message processing module 160 may include one or more message sorters 164. Message sorter 164 may sort Type B messages to find Type B messages with matching IATA license plates that are configured to terminate at a destination airport on any given day or time, and may build a manifest of the baggage items of passengers that terminate at the destination airport and use system 100 for baggage handling and delivery and / or security clearance handling.

[0186] In one or more embodiments, an item of baggage arriving at an airport may be required to undergo security screening, such as for border screening. In another example, an item of baggage arriving at an airport may be required to undergo security screening for one of a lodging facility or another moving vehicle.

[0187] Processing of terminating BSM or B-type messages is described in more detail with respect to Figure 14A. B-type messages, such as BSMs, may include a package source indicator that indicates terminating and non-terminating BSMs. A non-terminating BSM or B-type message may be one of local, transfer, and remote, as described with respect to Figure 14A.

[0188] For example, system 100 can filter Type B messages related to passengers expected to arrive on a particular day. However, if a passenger changes their reservation to arrive earlier than originally intended, an image of the originating hard copy bag tag can alert system 100 to such a change when processing a destination Type B message by Type B message processing module 160. Manifest MX may not be updated with new information in time for processing. System 100 can be configured to generate baggage manifest records and update manifests from lodging, homecoming, or other moving vehicles even with outdated or incomplete information in manifest MX.

[0189] As a non-limiting example, system 100 may include a programming module 149 that may include programming instructions that, when executed, may be configured to receive B-type messages from each airport and begin sorting and matching from the received B-type messages according to the airport's schedule and hours of operation.

[0190] The B-type message processing module 160, when executed, may include programming instructions that cause the B-type message matcher 166 to match the passenger name (PN) in the destination BSM with the name of the arriving client in the manifest file. The passenger information in the B-type message may be matched with pre-loaded information in one manifest MX for accommodation, home, or transfer vehicle, respectively. For example, some baggage items may need to be delivered to a train station, bus station, or home.

[0191] The destination BSM includes various movement data for the airline carrier for a first mode of movement of the checked baggage item. The manifest MX may have partial data. Thus, in one or more embodiments, matching by the B-type message matcher 166 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can match the passenger name of a passenger in the received BSM with the passenger name in a manifest for a second mode of movement that is different from the first mode of movement. The second mode of movement may be local to the airport associated with the airport code. The manifest may be any manifest, including a parcel manifest, a security manifest, an accommodation manifest, or a different mode of transportation manifest.

[0192] In one or more embodiments, matching by the B-type message matcher 166 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to match a passenger reservation record (PNR) number of a passenger in the received BSM with a PNR number in a manifest for a second mode of travel that is different from the first mode of travel. The second mode of travel may be local to an airport associated with the airport code.

[0193] In one or more embodiments, matching by B-type message matcher 166 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to match the passenger's airline information and flight number in the received BSM with airline information and flight numbers in a manifest for a second mode of travel that is different from the first mode of travel. The second mode of travel may be local to an airport associated with the airport code.

[0194] The system 100 processes baggage items of arriving clients (i.e., passengers) using a baggage manifest 121. 1 …121 x, so that the baggage items can move independently and / or in parallel with the passenger. The system can also build a master manifest for the passenger, as described in connection with Figure 6, so that the passenger knows if their accommodations are ready or if there have been any reservation changes.

[0195] Baggage manifest 121 1 …121 x The data in may be based on text converted from text captured by the passenger on the originating hard copy bag tag or on a printed document (i.e., a marker or bingo marker) that has at least some of the information on the originating hard copy bag tag.

[0196] When executed, the B-type message processing module 160 causes the B-type message data extractor 168 to extract the baggage identifiable information (LII) from the B-type message and store the data in the baggage manifest 121. 1 …121 x The extracted data may include programming instructions to merge the baggage item data into the baggage manifest. As a non-limiting example, Manifest MX may indicate the next mode of travel or the next vehicle of travel. For example, Manifest MX may be for ABC Cruise Lines. The extracted data may include any missing baggage item data required by the baggage manifest. For example, the extracted information may include an IATA license plate number, passenger name, airline, flight number, and / or passenger reservation record number.

[0197] Thus, if a match is found, the IATA license plate and / or passenger name can be extracted from the Termination B type message. Furthermore, if a match is found, a trigger can be sent to a Security Screening Integrated Assistant (SSIA) system 190 (FIG. 16) via a security screening trigger generator 170 using a wired or wireless communication protocol. The trigger generator 170 can include programming instructions that, when executed, send the IATA license plate (IATA-LP) 171 and / or passenger name (PN) 172 and / or PNR number 173 associated with the baggage item being screened to, for example, the SSIA system 190 (FIG. 16). This can be based on sorting the Termination B type message.

[0198] In one or more embodiments, a Security Screening Integration Assistant (SSIA) process is triggered within at least one of the at least one processor based on matching a passenger name or other travel data in the airline's B-type message with a passenger name in the flight manifest. This process may be performed within system 100 or by remote system 190. The SSIA process may include using the IATA license plate number to access and assemble security screening images and related data captured during the first mode of travel security screening, and communicating the assembled security screening images and related data to an integrated security screening station.

[0199] In one or more embodiments, a Security Screening Integration Assistant (SSIA) process is triggered within at least one of the at least one processor based on matching the travel data in the airline's B-type message with available passenger information in the second travel mode manifest MX. This process may be performed within system 100 or by remote system 190. The SSIA process may include accessing and assembling security screening images and related data captured during the first mode of travel security screening using the IATA license plate number, and communicating the assembled security screening images and related data to the integrated security screening station.

[0200] Analysis by ISSS 2670 (FIG. 26A) can use shared image files and security data from memory 113 of first security screening machine system (FSSMS) 40. However, system 100 can use data from the destination BSM, including the IATA license plate, PNR number, and / or passenger name, to access security image and data files in memory 113, for example, without needing to access additional PII. System 100 can use data in at least one image of the origin hard copy bag tag or printed document with some of the information from the BSM to obtain the PNR number and passenger name and / or IATA license plate to access the shared security image files without needing to access additional PII.

[0201] The marker data can be updated with information associated with a pass or fail indicator of the security screening analysis described in Figures 26A-26B. The marker may include a room or guest room number, a floor or level number, etc., for delivery of the baggage item within the accommodation. Markers are described in connection with Figure 15. The marker may be generated by the marker generator 412 of Figure 4A, 4B, or 4C. As described herein, the marker MK may be printed for baggage handling, sorting, and transportation. For example, printing of the marker may be triggered based on security clearance status, reservation data updates, etc.

[0202] The programming module 149 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the PNR number matcher 176 to match PNR numbers and the PNR data verifier 180 to verify the accessed PNR data. Based on the PNR number in the B-type message and the PNR number in the image data, the PNR numbers may be matched by the PNR number matcher 176. Upon matching, the PNR number may be added to a baggage item record. However, the PNR data may be needed to determine travel information for the baggage item's next leg of travel. For example, data in the PNR 112 (FIG. 1B) may include data related to lodging, rental cars, air travel carriers, etc. In one or more embodiments, the programming module may obtain the PNR data from the PNR 112 (FIG. 1B). The PNR data verifier 180 may verify the PNR data from the PNR 112 (FIG. 1B) for the next leg of travel and create a digital baggage item record for the baggage manifest.

[0203] Generally, airlines update the PNR 112 whenever there is a change. Thus, PNR data may be updated while a passenger is on a cruise or engaged in a travel experience. Passengers can obtain such travel changes (i.e., updates). However, baggage manifests may need to periodically verify any stored PNR data for baggage item records to ensure that baggage items arrive where they need to be on time with little or no interaction from the baggage item's owner. The term verifying may include obtaining updates to the PNR data.

[0204] In one or more embodiments, the system 100 can include a manifest MX from accommodations with passenger information regarding the passenger's expected arrival. In real-time operation, with thousands of passengers traveling around the world each day, itineraries can change. As discussed above, passengers know where they are going, but their baggage items do not. Changes or delays can cause baggage items to be misplaced, arrive late, or get lost, which can detract from the overall travel experience of the baggage item. The travel experience of a baggage item can have a direct impact on the travel experience of its owner.

[0205] The programming module 149 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, cause the baggage manifest recorder 185 to record the corresponding baggage manifest 121. 1 …121 x The digital baggage item record and / or simulated B-type message are entered into the baggage item record and used to create a baggage manifest record for entry into the baggage manifest 121 for the specific accommodation or travel carrier for the next travel leg. 1 …121 xIn one or more embodiments, the digital baggage manifest record may be "PENDING" until the baggage item is unloaded from the airline mobile carrier's aircraft and the IATA bag tag barcode on the originating hard copy bag tag is scanned by a capture device in system 100, thereby registering the baggage item's arrival in system 100. System 100, in one or more embodiments, may be used outside of an airport's computing infrastructure. In one or more embodiments, system 100 may overlap with airport computing infrastructure, but may extend access of baggage data to off-site computing systems for use by lodging facilities and other modes of transportation, for example, using IATA license plate numbers.

[0206] In one or more embodiments, based on the Termination B type message, it may be necessary to match passenger names from any number of manifests to construct baggage manifest records for home delivery, security screening, security screening by mode of travel, etc. A home delivery manifest may, for example, include a list of registered passengers who have baggage items scheduled for delivery to their home address or other designated address.

[0207] FIG. 1D illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 for generating at least one baggage manifest triggered by a non-terminal B-type message, according to one embodiment. A non-terminal B-type message is a B-type message that includes an IATA license plate number, a passenger name, and / or a passenger name record (PNR) number. The non-terminal B-type messages can be sorted by baggage source indicator, multiple baggage source indicators, or all baggage source indicators. Because FIG. 1D is similar to FIG. 1A, only the differences will be described in detail.

[0208] Non-endpoint B-type message processing In Figure 1D, a non-terminating B-type message receiver 158' is provided. As a non-limiting example, system 100 may include programming module 149 that may be configured to receive B-type messages from an airport and initiate sorting and matching from the non-terminating B-type messages according to the airport's schedule and hours of operation. As described in connection with Figure 26B, first mode mobile carrier 104 may be an air mobile carrier for flights departing from another country.

[0209] Although the description applies to "non-terminal B-type messages" as they apply to an airline or airport infrastructure, in one or more embodiments, non-terminal message receiver 158' may be overridden or controlled to be an all-B-type message receiver. In this way, B-type message receiver 158' may receive all B-type messages, for example, to sort all passengers against a flight manifest for security screening processing.

[0210] In one or more embodiments, to build a baggage manifest record, it may be necessary to match passenger names from any number of manifests based on any type of B-type message.

[0211] For an air carrier departing from a foreign country and landing at an airport with a matching airport code, i.e., for example, at a first border crossing, system 100 can receive the entire flight manifest 151 and non-terminal B-type messages. Terminal B-type messages are received and processed in FIG. 1A . For example, messages arriving at an airport that also requires customs security clearance are matched by comparing the passenger names in the flight manifest with the sorted B-type messages. Thus, when a match is detected and the IATA license plate and passenger name and / or PNR number are extracted from the non-terminal B-type message, a trigger can be sent to a Security Screening Integrated Assistant (SSIA) system 190 ( FIG. 16 ) via a security screening trigger generator 170. The trigger generator 170, when executed, can include programming instructions that, for example, send the IATA license plate and / or passenger name and / or PNR number associated with the baggage item being screened to the SSIA system 190.

[0212] Type B message processing module 160' may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause message sorter 164' to sort for non-terminal airports to build a manifest for baggage items that will be processed through customs at the non-terminal airports. In one or more embodiments, the manifest may be a security assistant processing manifest. In other words, some of the baggage items will not be handled by system 100 outside of the airport infrastructure.

[0213] In other embodiments, passenger names matched to manifest MX may also be added to another manifest. For example, depending on the origin of a flight, a baggage item may need to be processed through a first security station using a non-terminal B-type message at a first airport location, and then through a second security station using a terminal B-type message at a second airport location.

[0214] The B-type message processing module 160' may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the B-type message matcher 166' to match passenger names in a non-terminal B-type message with the names of arriving clients (i.e., registered passengers) in a general manifest file. Passenger information in a B-type message may be matched with pre-loaded information in a respective one of the manifests MX for accommodations or modes of travel. Non-terminal B-type messages, such as non-terminal BSMs, are described in connection with FIG. 14A.

[0215] When executed, the B-type message processing module 160' causes a B-type message data extractor 168' to extract information from non-termination B-type messages and store that data in the baggage manifest 121. 1 …121 x and / or may include programming instructions for merging with baggage manifest records.

[0216] As described in connection with Figure 26B, a non-terminating B-type message may initiate the LIB inventory recorder 185 before a terminating B-type message. However, due to delays or changes that occur in the air mobility industry, the LIB 2450 (Figure 24) may be updated with new LIB data based on information in terminating B-type messages, such as terminating BSMs.

[0217] For example, each change may generate a new PNR number with new flight or travel information.

[0218] As described in FIG. 1B, the first leg of travel may have been on an airplane. However, the baggage item may have been picked up from a train station, bus station, hotel, etc. by an employee of system 100 or other baggage handler before being scanned to register the baggage item as having arrived at the lodging facility according to the baggage manifest, where the baggage item begins the next leg of travel, which may also be a cruise ship or resort.

[0219] Return section bag tag information In one or more embodiments, using the originating flight airline's bag tag for check-in for the return leg enables the ability to address a major shortcoming in the current remote check-in process. A focus on cruise line check-in revolves around valet tags, allowing cruise lines to check passengers in for flights while at sea, retrieving boarding passes and valet tags on board, a process that is performed through overloaded staff on board under significant time constraints. The check-in process is difficult and unreliable, requiring the creation of hybrid airline check-in functionality to allow this process to occur on board. Other issues include the airline check-in window being extended to 48 hours to attempt to help cruise ships' struggles to allow more time for handling tasks, and other attempts to address onboard workloads. This was addressed with a one-page document patent to enable a faster process for printing documents for all passengers who check in from the ship and delivering valet tags and boarding documents to each room for each passenger using the service. All of these obstacles limit the product's volume and financial success. The current systems and methods disclosed herein eliminate work from ship staff and delivery of documents to rooms for each passenger. The use of simplified technology or a Type B message check-in process in conjunction with origin bag tags (formerly trash) allows for a seamless check-in process off the ship because the bag is already marked with important retrievable data that allows the user to access the airline check-in process. This seamless baggage process allows the already tagged bag to flow through the process with an identifier that enables the flow of information for airline check-in.Original IATA bag tag scanning also enables other remote operations at hotels, resorts, etc. with limited technology, workstations, printers, and space, while enabling a seamless, cost-effective system across remote checks within the network, enabling a financially sustainable process.

[0220] Experience moving along the original route 1B shows a block diagram of a system 100 for checking in passengers for a return leg of travel, according to one embodiment. In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may be used to check in passengers for a return leg and / or to activate LIB2450 for arriving baggage items.

[0221] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary journey of a baggage item along multiple travel legs to a lodging facility or next mode of travel.

[0222] System 100 is shown between lines AA and BB. System 100 can communicate with mobile information system 108 of first mode mobile carrier 104, mobile information system 110 of optional intermediate mobile carrier 106, and / or mobile information system 128 of accommodation 126. In the embodiments described herein, accommodation 126 is a cruise ship. Mobile information systems 108, 110, and 128 may include, for example, web-based servers connected to the Internet. One or more components of system 100 are located locally to DP 107, where the destination point is also local to the accommodation. In one or more embodiments, accommodation 126 may be a resort destination or hotel.

[0223] The first mode mobile carrier 104 may be one of an airline carrier, a bus carrier, and a train carrier. However, for purposes of explanation, an example will be described with respect to the first mode mobile carrier being an airline carrier. The optional intermediate mobile carrier 106 may be one of an airline carrier, a bus carrier, and a train carrier.

[0224] Travel leg 140, represented as a dashed line, shows the route of travel legs L1, L2, and L3 of passenger and passenger baggage 138 from a starting point (i.e., home 102) to a point where they stay or board at accommodation 126, via leg L4. Leg L1 is a travel route from home 102 to a first mode mobile carrier 104. Leg L2 is a travel route using a first mode mobile carrier 104 to DP 107 or to optional leg L3 associated with an intermediate mobile carrier 106. Optional leg L3 is a travel route using an intermediate mobile carrier 106 to DP 107. For example, a passenger can end their travel route at the end of leg L2, board a vehicle of a different mobile carrier or flight, and begin traveling to DP 107 along leg L3. It should further be appreciated that the travel route of leg L3 can include one or more intermediate mobile carriers. In some cases, a passenger's journey may have zero (0) intermediate travel carriers, such as in the case of a direct flight or direct travel leg to a destination point DP along the route of travel leg 140.

[0225] Return journey experience 1C shows a block diagram of a system 100 for checking in passenger baggage for the return leg of travel after disembarking from accommodation, according to one embodiment. The system of FIG. 1C is the same as system 100 of FIG. 1B. However, the components of system 100 may be distributed at different locations away from the airport to obtain OP-BTI.

[0226] According to one or more embodiments, the return route may include travel segments L2' and L1' after departing the accommodation on L4'. The return route may include, for example, L3', L2', and L1'. In one or more embodiments, the passenger itinerary may include a temporary accommodation reservation after L2' and before commencing travel L1'. As can be seen, there are many possible modes of travel and accommodation in a passenger's travel experience.

[0227] For the return journey, the original printed bag tag 142' may be used for tracking, locating, and / or gathering information in other modes of travel prior to baggage check-in for the return flight. In one or more embodiments, depending on the mode of travel, the baggage item may be separated from the passenger. The passenger may travel without the bag, possibly using other modes of travel.

[0228] According to one or more embodiments, system 100 may be integrated with or connected to systems 2700 (FIG. 27) and / or 3100 (FIG. 31) to separate baggage items from passengers of other travel modes who are checked in for return flights within a specified check-in window, print return flight bag tags for placement on the baggage items, and transfer the baggage items to the custody of the airline carrier. In one or more embodiments, system 100 may be integrated with or connected to systems 2700 and / or 3100.

[0229] According to one or more embodiments, system 100, 2700, and / or 3100 can cause a printer associated with the airline carrier or an airline kiosk to print a return flight IATA compliant bag tag for the airline mobile carrier's return flight. In one or more embodiments, system 100, 2700, and / or 3100 can include a printing device for printing the return flight IATA bag tag and replacing the originating hard copy bag tag with the return flight IATA bag tag.

[0230] In one or more embodiments, the printed IATA bag tag number on the return flight IATA bag tag can be recycled for use in off-airport locations and temporary accommodations as a recycled unique identifier during those portions of the return journey after the baggage item has been unloaded from the airline carrier and picked up from the airline or airport infrastructure. The return flight IATA bag tag on the return journey is a machine-readable bag tag that will not be discarded for any other mode of travel and accommodation, including temporary accommodation after the baggage has completed its return journey on the airline travel carrier.

[0231] The destination point DP 107 is local to the port of embarkation of the accommodation 126. The system 100 or one or more components of the system may be controlled and manned by a third-party service provider independent of any mobile carrier. The system 100 may be controlled and manned by a mobile carrier local to the destination point DP 107. The mobile carrier local to the destination point DP 107 may be an airline carrier, train carrier, bus carrier, cruise ship carrier, or combinations thereof. The acquisition devices described herein may be distributed at locations outside of an airport to locate and track baggage items across alternative modes of travel, etc.

[0232] In some cases, the travel route of the first mode mobile carrier and the travel route of the optional intermediate mobile carrier 106 can be reversed, so that the travel route of passengers on section L2 can be by the intermediate mobile carrier 106, and the travel route of passengers on section L3 to DP107 can use the first mode mobile carrier.

[0233] Components of the system 100 may include a scanner 116 for scanning a bag tag (BT) 142. An exemplary BT 142 from an airline carrier is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 2A . The BT 142 is an original paper bag tag (OP-BT) having an original bag tag identifier (O-BTI) 114, such as from a first mode travel carrier 104 of a first travel leg. The O-BTI 114 may be stored in a database by the first mode travel carrier 104.

[0234] In one or more embodiments, a passenger with a mobile communication device 15 can capture an image of the BT 142. According to one example, the BT 142 may be printed by an airport kiosk and placed on a baggage item by the passenger.

[0235] In one or more embodiments, a passenger with a mobile communication device 15 can capture an image of a printed document bearing at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hard-copy bag tag. As a non-limiting example, the printed document may be a home-printed bag tag. In another example, the printed document may be a conventional airline tag marker 212 as described in connection with FIG. 2B. As a non-limiting example, the printed document may be any other printed document bearing passenger / airline information that can be used to extract a passenger name record (PNR) number directly from the document or access a PNR number from memory operably accessible by a computer system associated with the airline, where the airline carrier is the source of the printed text and layout of the originating hard-copy bag tag to be printed and / or the printed document bears at least a portion of the text printed on the originating hard-copy bag tag.

[0236] In one or more embodiments, components of system 100 may also include a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader or a near field communication (NFC) identification reader, both of which are referred to herein as RFID-R 150 and shown with dashed boxes to indicate their options. RFID readers receive electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags. In some cases, passenger baggage 138 may use RFID tags or near field communication (NFC) compatible tags that generate a 10-digit license plate or equivalent identifier. However, currently, most baggage still uses printed or paper bag tags as the primary means of identifying passenger baggage 138.

[0237] In one or more embodiments, passenger baggage 138 may include radio frequency communication devices, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) trackers, GSM-5G trackers, WIFI-enabled communication devices, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy (BLE) devices, BLUETOOTH-enabled communication devices, short-range RF communication devices, and long-range communication devices, using compatible wireless communication protocols.

[0238] The term passenger baggage 138 may include one or more baggage items. The one or more baggage items may include the first baggage item. In some cases, only the BT 142 of the first baggage item may need to be scanned to digitally recreate the passenger's bag number.

[0239] The stored digital O-BTI 114 may be converted into a format compatible with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) bag tag code and other standardized formats of the carrier. For example, an airline bag tag may include an IATA code, which includes a three-character alphanumeric geocode that designates the airport and metropolitan area. The IATA code is also known as the IATA location identifier. IATA also publishes industry-standard rules for creating bag tags for the airline industry. The printed BT 142 may include the 10-digit license plate and corresponding barcode shown in FIG. 2A. The O-BTI 114 may include information to create the IATA geocode, original airline flight information, the 10-digit license plate, and other BT information printed on the BT 142, as illustrated in FIG. 2A. The BT 142 may use license plates used by other mobile carriers.

[0240] Components of system 100 may include an imaging device 118 for capturing images of passenger baggage 138. Components of system 100 may include an optional printing device 120 configured to print markers (MK) 136 on a substrate. An exemplary MK 136 is described in connection with FIG. 15 .

[0241] Components of system 100 may include computing device 122, as described in more detail with respect to Figure 7. Computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and printing device 120 via wireless communications, as indicated by reference numeral 130. In one or more embodiments, computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and / or printing device 120 using a wired communications protocol. Printing device 120 may be a laser printer, inkjet printer, or other printer device.

[0242] It should be understood from this disclosure that the system herein accommodates many possible outcomes that various passengers may experience. MK136 is necessary because some baggage arriving at a destination may not contain an originally printed bag tag or airline marker, both of which may contain an IATA barcode. In such a situation, the system must prepare a marker for temporarily tagging the baggage.

[0243] Additionally, the MK136 may be used in one or more embodiments for baggage items processed through an integrated security screening station, such as that depicted in FIG. 26A.

[0244] In one or more embodiments, a baggage item may be provided with a wireless tracking device 175. By way of non-limiting example, the wireless tracking device 175 may be a tracking device that may include an accelerometer (ACC), gyroscope, global positioning system (GPS), and / or inertial navigation unit (INU) for determining its own position, which may be transmitted to a computing device (i.e., server 148) of system 100. The wireless tracking device 175 may have a unique identifier, such as a registered serial number, a media access control (MAC) address, or another assigned unique identifier, that is stored in LIB2450, an extended B-type message, another B-type message, and / or an inventory related to one of the accommodation, mode of transport, or other inventory. The wireless tracker device 175 may also be programmed with a unique identifier for the passenger and / or baggage item, such as the passenger's name, PNR number, Super PNR number, IATA license plate number, a portion of data from a B-type message, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the wireless tracker device 175 may be a temporary or removable tracker.

[0245] The wireless tracking device 175 may be a radio frequency communication device, such as an AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) tracker, a GSM-5G tracker, a WIFI-enabled communication device, a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) device, a BLUETOOTH-enabled communication device, a short-range RF communication device, and a long-range communication device, using a compatible wireless communication protocol.

[0246] For short-range communication devices, such as, but not limited to, WIFI-enabled communication devices, BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) devices, and BLUETOOTH-enabled communication devices, system 100 may include remote network devices 127 within accommodation 126. In one or more embodiments, remote network devices 127 may be remote network devices of accommodation 126 and may be used by system 100 to convey location data via wireless tracking devices 175. Alternatively, or in addition, some of remote network devices 127 may be owned by system 100 and others may be owned by accommodation 126.

[0247] In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking device 175 may be temporarily assigned to a baggage item. For example, the wireless tracking device 175 may be configured to communicate within a designated area D10, such as on a cruise ship, and within a nearby surrounding area, such as a dock. For example, once the baggage item is disembarked and checked in for a return flight, or at some other time, the wireless tracking device 175 may be removed and reassigned to another baggage item for the next cruise on the cruise ship.

[0248] For example, the cruise ship area (i.e., designated area D10) may include the cruise ship and a 100-foot diameter surrounding the cruise ship. The cruise ship area (i.e., designated area D10) may have a receiver or network communication device that receives signals from the wireless tracking device 175. The diameter may be 10-50 feet, 10-75 feet, or 10-100 feet. The diameter may be up to 200 feet, up to 300 feet, up to 500 feet, or up to 1000 feet surrounding the cruise ship.

[0249] Long-range communication devices, such as, but not limited to, AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) trackers, and GSM-5G trackers, may communicate with cellular, satellite, and GSM communication service providers. The location signal may be transmitted to server 148 or other designated computing device for access by and / or storage therein by LIB 2450. In one or more embodiments, long-range communication devices may also be configured to communicate using short-range communication protocols. In this case, wireless tracking device 175 may communicate within designated area D10 using a short-range communication protocol with remote network device 127, or a long-range communication protocol.

[0250] The wireless tracking device 175 can be used to track its location while moving in any or the next travel mode using long-range or short-range communications depending on the configuration of the wireless tracking device 175.

[0251] The system can obtain light passenger information by scanning a barcode or quick response (QR) code associated with the original flight's boarding pass. In some cases, the passenger's ticket may contain information associated with a 10-digit license plate, which can be removed from the passenger and placed on luggage without the need to print an MK136. For example, a passenger may receive a marker with an adhesive backing from an airline attendant when checking in their luggage at the airport.

[0252] The marker may include a 10-digit license plate number or other information that can be used by passengers to identify their luggage in the event of loss, for example.

[0253] The system may include, by a printing device in communication with the at least one processor, creating an MK136 having a marker identifier that associates the passenger manifest record with the first baggage item if an originating paper bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or on the printed bag tag of the first baggage item is either damaged or missing, and populating the passenger manifest record with the marker identifier. The marker identifier may be a barcode readable by a barcode scanning device, and the marker identifier includes one of the OP-BTI or a new passenger tracking identifier.

[0254] Computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and / or printing device 120 using a near-field communication (NFC) protocol, such as, but not limited to, BLUETOOTH. Computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and / or printing device 120 using Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard. Computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and / or printing device 120 using ZIGBEE® wireless technology, for example, that conforms to IEEE 802.15. Computing device 122 may communicate with scanner 116, imaging device 118, and / or printing device 120 using a long-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a cellular radio frequency protocol, or other mobile radio frequency protocol.

[0255] In other embodiments, the scanner 116 may be a software application stored on the computing device 122 and programmed to interact with a video or camera device embedded in, integrated with, or connected via a cable to the computing device 122. In one or more embodiments, the computing device 122, the imaging device 118, and the scanner 116 may be a single device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other handheld computing device that is video-enabled, hereinafter referred to as a "smart communication device." In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may include a local computing device or server 148 for communicating with the smart communication devices and the mobile information systems 108, 110, and / or 128. The local computing device (i.e., the server 148) communicates with at least one smart communication device and / or the mobile information system 108, 110, or 128 using wired or wireless communication.

[0256] The computing device 122 and / or the server 148 may be in communication with the mobile communication device 15 or other wired or wireless communication device.

[0257] In one or more embodiments, the computing device 122, the imaging device 118, the scanner 116, and the RFID-R 150 may be a single device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other video-enabled handheld computing device, also referred to herein as a “smart communication device.”

[0258] Imaging device 118, scanner 116, and RFID-R 150 may be electronic devices (i.e., acquisition devices) that acquire barcodes or other information associated with IATA license plates, such as 10-digit license plates. As should be understood from this disclosure, although the IATA standard uses 10-digit license plates, other license plate formats having more or fewer digits may be used. For example, 10-digit license plates may be acquired by, for example, optical character recognition, computer vision machine learning algorithms, or other artificial intelligence algorithms capable of recognizing alphanumeric characters and converting the recognized characters into machine-coded text.

[0259] An acquisition device may, for example, provide an extended type B message to server 148 of system 100 outside the airport infrastructure. However, to the extent that some acquisition devices overlap with the airport infrastructure, those acquisition devices may, for example, provide an extended type B message to server 148 from within the airport infrastructure. As a non-limiting example, an extended baggage processed message (BPM) may be generated by an acquisition device, the BPM including at least the recycled IATA license plate and the passenger's name. The extended BPM may include a unique identifier for the acquisition device and location data. The extended BPM may be transmitted to server 148 associated with system 100 so that the location data is updated in LIB2450 and / or the extended type B message, as described in connection with FIGS. 14C-14E ​​. While an extended BPM is described, other extended type B messages may be generated by system 100 and transmitted to server 148, and these messages may be generated after a baggage item arrives at DP 107 and uses the corresponding baggage item's recycled IATA license plate. For example, the Extended Type B may be used to update location data from acquisition devices in the LIB 2450 and / or to initiate processes described herein for delivery and handling of baggage items independent of the passenger. In one or more embodiments, the Extended Type B message may use an IATA-compliant encoding format structure. Alternatively, the Extended Type B message may use an encoding format structure that differs from the IATA encoding format but conveys a similar message structure.

[0260] Components of the system 100 may include an optional baggage receiver 124 for transporting received baggage, such as on a conveyor belt. As passenger baggage 138 moves along the conveyor belt, at least one scanner 116 and at least one imaging device 118 may scan or capture information representative of the O-BTI 114. In one or more embodiments, the imaging device 118 may capture an image of one or more passenger baggage pieces 138. Additionally, the RFID-R 150 may read RFID or NFC tags attached to the baggage receiver 124. In one or more embodiments, the scanner 116 may scan QR code-enabled bag tags. RFID, NFC, and QR code-enabled bag tags may contain specific personal information or PU. This personal information of the passenger and the information in the PNR 112 may be used to verify the personal information. The RFID or NFC tag should comply with, for example, IATA RP1740c. The PNR 112 represents a storage location where an airline carrier may store the passenger's PNR. The PNR number 230 is also known as a PNR locator. PNR data can be located using at least the PNR number 230. As a non-limiting example, PNR data can be stored in a passenger service system (PSS) or an order management system (OMS). However, over time, the location of the storage device for PNR data can change. Therefore, the system can use and update PNR access instructions according to each airline carrier to determine how to navigate to the PNR 112. Communication exchanges can include Internet Protocol (IP), Extensible Markup Language (XML) standards, and XML messaging.

[0261] In other embodiments, the baggage receiver 124 may include a designated pad or surface for placing a single piece of passenger baggage 138, with the scanner, imaging device 118, and / or RFID-R 150 in proximity to the pad to scan the O-BTI 114 and / or capture an image of the passenger baggage 138. The scanner 116 and imaging device 118 may be the same device, but may operate to locate and scan a barcode bearing the O-BTI 114 in one process and to locate and capture an identifying baggage feature on a portion or side of the body of the passenger baggage 138 in a second, optional process. In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiver 402A may be bypassed if the printed BT 142 is not readable. In this case, the user may directly input the 10-digit license plate 210, which is then input into the license plate parser 404A to identify the mobile carrier identification and the passenger bag number. The scanner 116, imaging device 118, and RFID-R 150 may be integrated into the same device, with the RFID-R 150 reading the RFID or NFC tag if a printed bag tag is not present and creating personal information for the inventory.

[0262] In the process of capturing identifying baggage characteristics, such as using computer vision, a determination may be made that the passenger baggage 138 does not include the original paper bag tag. In this case, received information from the RFID-R 150 may be utilized. In some cases, the passenger baggage 138 may have both an RFID or NFC tag and an original paper bag tag, because the original paper bag tag may include information associated with a mobile carrier for the return journey local to home 102.

[0263] According to one or more embodiments, the computing device 122 and / or server 148 of the system 100 may generate a communication session with the mobile information system 108 or 110 to access the PNR 112 based on the scanned BT 142 and obtain information representing the original O-BTI 114 having an embedded code of the passenger's bag number, as described below.

[0264] According to one or more embodiments, the computing device 122 and / or server 148 of the system 100 can generate a communication session with the mobile information system 108 or 110 to access the PNR 112 based on the image of the BT 142 and obtain passenger information including at least the PNR number captured from the BT 142, as described below.

[0265] The mobile information system 108 or 110 may generate a communication with passenger file data 132 containing the passenger's return leg information while maintaining the confidentiality of the PII in the PNR. The received passenger file data 132 is assembled into a manifest file 134 or transmitted to the mobile information system 128 where the manifest file 134 is created. In some cases, the server 148 may create the manifest file. One of the computing device 122 and / or the server 148 may communicate the manifest file to the mobile information system 128 of the accommodation 126.

[0266] The computing device 122 and / or server 148 may merge all passenger file data 132 into a single manifest file 134 of checked-in passenger baggage and / or passengers. The computing device 122 and / or server 148 then communicates the manifest file 134 to the travel information system 128 of the accommodation 126.

[0267] A departure control system (DCS) may control the management of the check-in process for an airline mobile carrier. The mobile information system 108 or 110 may include a check-in indicator 144 that indicates that a passenger and / or passenger's baggage items have been checked in for travel within a particular window. In one or more embodiments, the mobile carrier may include a check-in database 146 for passengers and / or their baggage who have been checked in for travel. [Example]

[0268] Example 1 An exemplary scenario will now be described in detail. A passenger prepares for a travel journey, beginning, for example, at home 102, where passenger baggage 138 departs, and travels leg L1 of travel journey 140. Passenger baggage 138 may travel with the passenger or via a baggage transport service to a first mode travel carrier 104, which begins travel leg L2. Assume that first mode travel carrier 104 is an airline. At first mode travel carrier 104, passenger baggage 138 receives a BT 142, as shown in FIG. 2A . BT 142 includes printed information representing an O-BTI 114 that conforms to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) bag tag format. BT 142 may be printed on paper or a paper composite by an airline agent, at an airline counter via a baggage transport service, or by the passenger at a kiosk. If used, BT 142 remains on passenger baggage 138 as it travels along leg L3, as described below. In one or more embodiments, once the BT 142 is printed, the passenger may capture at least one image of the BT 142 and / or the printed document and communicate the at least one image to the computing device 122 or the server 148, as described below.

[0269] The passenger's travel itinerary includes an accommodation 126. In this example, it is assumed that the accommodation 126 is a cruise ship. In one or more embodiments, before the passenger boards the cruise (i.e., the accommodation 126), the BT 142 having the O-BTI 114 is scanned by a scanner 116 to digitize a printed representation of the O-BTI 114 or is imaged by an imaging device to digitize the passenger's personal information printed on the BT 142. The passenger's personal information may include the passenger's unique PNR number. The passenger's personal information may include the passenger's name. The passenger's personal information may include the O-BTI 114 created by optical character recognition into a format that is, for example, machine-encoded text.

[0270] In various scenarios, the passenger's journey may include journey leg L2 and journey leg L3. For example, if only a first mode of travel carrier is present, journey leg L3 is omitted. In this case, the first mode of travel carrier may provide a direct flight to a city or destination that is proximate or local to the accommodation 126. In other examples, the passenger's journey may include an intermediate travel carrier 106 to provide journey leg L3. For example, the passenger's journey may include at least one connecting flight or leg of travel to a city or destination that is proximate to the accommodation 126. The connecting leg of the journey may be shown as leg L3 of the journey beginning at the end of leg L2 and ending at DP 107.

[0271] FIG. 2A shows a partial view of a printed, prior art, conventional airline IATA bag tag 200 (i.e., BT142). IATA bag tag 200 is half of a bag tag. IATA bag tag 200 includes two sides that can be mirror images of each other, allowing the ends of IATA bag tag 200 to be affixed to each other. In the illustrated example, IATA bag tag 200 includes a three-digit origin airport flight identifier 202 and a three-digit destination airport flight identifier 204. IATA bag tag 200 also includes at least one barcode flight identifier 206. In this illustration, IATA bag tag 200 includes a first barcode flight identifier 206 having the bars of the barcode oriented in a first orientation and a second barcode flight identifier 208 having the bars of the barcode oriented in a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. Bag tag formats may vary slightly from country to country and from mobile carrier to mobile carrier.

[0272] In one or more embodiments, the passenger's name may be on the IATA bag tag 200.

[0273] The IATA bag tag 200 includes a 10-digit license plate 210 that complies with IATA regulations. The 10-digit license plate number includes a first integer ranging from 0 to 9, followed by a three-digit airline code, followed by a six-digit license plate number. The last six digits of the license plate number correspond to the passenger bag number. Numeric fonts can be difficult to capture. The 10-digit license plate 210 is adjacent to a first barcode flight identifier 206 and / or a second barcode flight identifier 208.

[0274] Human-readable license plates have either a two-letter or three-digit IATA carrier code. For example, they may be "AA509795" or "001509795." AA is the two-letter IATA code for American Airlines®, and "001" is the three-digit IATA carrier code. Nevertheless, the barcode is always the full 10 digits.

[0275] The first barcode flight identifier 206 is a label that conceals personal information and flight information. For example, the first barcode flight identifier 206 is coded to include information about the passenger's name and where the baggage is going (i.e., destination), as well as other information: the name of the arrival airport, the departure time, the IATA airport code of the arrival airport, the airline code and flight number, and the name (first name, last name) of the passenger identified with the baggage. The first barcode flight identifier 206 is a modified version of a license plate 210.

[0276] The bag tag number includes a two-character airline code and six digits. The six digits represent the passenger's bag number. Using the passenger's bag number, the PNR 112 can be found by accessing a B-type message containing the PNR number, as described in more detail below. In one or more embodiments, the passenger's bag number also conceals the passenger's personal information.

[0277] The airline carrier generates and stores one or more B-type messages 152. The B-type messages 152 may include one or more of a Baggage Transfer Message (BTM), a Baggage Source Message (BSM), a Baggage Processed Message (BPM), a Baggage Unloaded Message (BUM), a Baggage Not Confirmed Message (BNS), a Baggage Control Message (BCM), a Baggage Manifest Message (BMM), and a Baggage Request (BRQ). The bag tag number is part of the baggage message. In one or more embodiments, the B-type message may include the passenger's name and PNR number, which allows access to other information based on the bag tag number.

[0278] The license plate 210 embedded in either the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208 is known as an index number (IN) that links to a Baggage Source Message (BSM) sent by the carrier's Departure Control System (DCS) to the airport's baggage handling system, and each digit on the license plate 210 has a specific meaning. For example, the BSM contains flight details and passenger information from the second leg L2.

[0279] The inventors have determined that an index number (IN) embedded in the license plate 210, the first barcode flight identifier 206, or the second barcode flight identifier 208 can be used to access the passenger's PNR 112.

[0280] The example in Figure 2A is a self-tagged airline bag tag printed by a passenger via an airport kiosk. All airline bag tags include at least one IATA license plate format. However, each airline may arrange the passenger / airline information on the printed bag tag differently, as seen in Figure 2D.

[0281] In FIG. 2A , at the top of the bag tag 200, there may be a passenger name record (PNR) number 230. The presentation of the PNR number 230 may vary by airline carrier. In this example, the PNR number 230 is preceded by the code term "PNR" 231, hereafter referred to as the "PNR indicator." The PNR indicator is followed by a colon ":." However, not all airlines use an explicit PNR indicator like "PNR." In such cases, the PNR number may need to be extracted based on expected information above, below, and / or next to the PNR number for a particular airline carrier.

[0282] The bag tag 200 may also include the passenger's name 235. However, each airline may place the PNR number 230 and the passenger's name 235 in different locations. Additionally, there may be characters before or after the PNR number 230, which may be alphabetic, numeric, or alphanumeric sequences. Thus, in some cases, it may be difficult to locate the PNR number 230 unless the airline carrier knows to obtain a common layout template.

[0283] The passenger's name 235 may appear, for example, on the bottom of the paper of the bag tag 200. However, in some cases, at least one conventional airline tag marker 212 may be printed just before the end of the bag tag 200 and removed before or after the bag tag is affixed to the baggage item. The conventional airline tag marker 212 may be given to the passenger as a receipt having at least an IATA bag tag license plate and a barcode disposed thereon.

[0284] The layout may place the passenger's name 235 adjacent to the PNR number. The passenger's name 235 may be displayed above or below the PNR number. The name may be displayed in a format that includes last name / first name, and the name may contain only alphabetic characters.

[0285] 2B shows a conventional airline tag marker 212. The airline tag marker 212 may include a passenger's name 214, an origin airport flight identifier 216, a destination airport flight identifier 217, a 10-digit license plate 218, and an adjacent barcode flight identifier 220.

[0286] In one or more embodiments, the airline bag tag marker 212 is affixed to the end of a conventional airline bag tag 200 and can be removed for the passenger to keep. The airline tag marker 212 can also be printed on paper or a paper composite.

[0287] The MK 136 printed by the printing device 120 may include personal information for the PNR 112 to populate with the passenger's name. In some cases, the MK 136 may include a temporary bag tag with an embedded code for the accommodation 126 or the return leg.

[0288] The layout of the airline tag marker 212 (ie, the printed document) can vary slightly.

[0289] FIG. 2D shows a partial view of another conventional airline bag tag 200' of the prior art. As can be seen, the layout of Southwest Airlines®'s origin hard copy bag tag 200' differs from American Airlines®. FIGS. 2A and 2D are just two examples of many different layouts. Southwest Airlines®'s IATA two-letter code is "WN." The IATA license plate number is "0526371073." Southwest Airlines®'s three-digit numeric IATA code is "526." Of particular note is the presence of the airline name, Southwest Airlines®, in a vertical orientation along the edge of the bag tag 200'.

[0290] The airline code "WN," the passenger's name, and the PNR number are separated by a dashed box. The IATA license plate is also separated by a dashed box for illustrative purposes only. In this example, the PNR number "3UPQFT" is not preceded by a PNR indicator. However, the PNR number is on a line with characters that are expressed in a date format such as XX / XX / XXXX. Additionally, below the PNR number are the digits of the IATA license plate. Therefore, this layout can be used to identify the location of the digits of the PNR number when there is no explicit PNR indicator.

[0291] 3A illustrates a scanner 116 according to one embodiment. The scanner 116 includes a software application (i.e., scanner application 310) loaded onto a computing device 302, such as computing device 122. A user of the scanner 116 points a camera lens 308 toward the printed bag tag 200. The camera lens 308 is on the back side of the device, opposite the display screen 304. A processor of the computing device causes an image (input) representing the printed bag tag 200 captured by the camera lens 308 to be displayed on the display screen 304.

[0292] The scanner application 310 may provide a barcode window 306, shown with dashed lines, to highlight and identify a printed barcode in an image or to guide a user toward the barcode, for example, so that the barcode window 306 is positioned to capture all of the bars of the second barcode flight identifier 208. Alternatively, or in addition, the scanner application 310 may scan the first barcode flight identifier 206. The barcode window 306 may be automatically displayed upon launch of the scanner application 310. The scanner application 310 may, for example, translate the barcode of the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208 and search for a linear or 1D barcode to generate a series of digits representing, for example, the license plate 210. A person can view the license plate 210; however, entering each digit is time-consuming and susceptible to human error.

[0293] The first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208 associated with the license plate 210 can be used, for example, as an index number (IN) to link to a baggage source message (BSM) containing passenger information to locate and access the PNR 112 for the passenger and its return flight information.

[0294] In one or more embodiments, the scanner application may also be used to capture a QR code bag tag identifier on a QR code bag tag affixed to passenger baggage 138. This information may be used to verify the PNR 112 or to access personal information.

[0295] Example 2 Another example scenario for using image data to obtain one or more of a PNR number, passenger name, and / or IATA license plate is described with respect to FIG. 3B. This information may be used, for example, to begin the process of building the LIB 2450. This data may be used for various tasks described herein. Furthermore, when a leg of travel ends or a moving vehicle ends, the LIB 2450 may be transitioned to the next moving vehicle, leaving behind the outdated moving vehicle data.

[0296] 3B illustrates an electronic capture device (i.e., imaging device 118) capturing an image 340 of an origin hardcopy bag tag 200, according to one embodiment. The imaging device 118 may be integrated with a computing device (i.e., mobile communication device 15). The imaging device 118 may be part of system 100. The image 340 has a gray background, in this case on the display screen 304. However, the background in the display screen 304 may include other objects and colors therein, such as those that occur when capturing an image within an ambient background. The imaging device 118 includes a software application (i.e., application 311) loaded on a computing device 302 or mobile communication device 15, such as computing device 122. In one or more embodiments, the application 311 running on the computing device 122 may be configured to perform optical character recognition (OCR). In one or more embodiments, an application 311 running on the mobile communication device 15 may be configured to perform optical character recognition (OCR) and transmit both at least one image and a DPI data record, which is stored in the LIB (FIG. 1A). The application 311 may be downloaded onto the mobile communication device 15 via the system 100, such as by using the server 148.

[0297] The image may include at least one image 340 of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the originating hardcopy bag tag 200 from different locations. The bag tag is long and some printed text is not easily visible. The printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier may include printed BSM data such as, but not limited to, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number. In one or more embodiments, the license plate number may include a two-digit airline alphabetic character code or a three-digit numeric code. The printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier may include a passenger name record (PNR) number. The printed information associated with the airline mobile carrier may include an airline code or an airline name. The printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier may include the passenger's name.

[0298] Printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier may include a unique identifier associated with the passenger itinerary or may be used to navigate to the passenger's stored return flight information on the specified mobile carrier.

[0299] Printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier may include a unique identifier that is a link index to the passenger's itinerary or passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier. In one or more embodiments, the unique identifier is a Super PNR number. On a multi-leg flight or multiple airline carriers, the Super PNR number can link all PNRs for each leg together. Each carrier may have a different PNR for the legs of the flight.

[0300] Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data records linked to an airline mobile carrier may include, for example, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Booking Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, a passenger name, or any combination thereof. Examples of printed passenger information within the image of the originating hardcopy bag tag 200 are delimited by dashed boxes. In one or more embodiments, once the airline name or airline code is verified, the system may not be required to find any further airline codes. The airline code or airline name can be used to determine the airline's bag tag (BT) layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag 200, facilitating the discovery of specific printed passenger information within the image.

[0301] In one or more embodiments, the DPI data record may include a passenger name record (PNR) number and an airline code or airline name. In some examples, the DPI data record may include a passenger name record (PNR) number, an airline code or airline name, and the passenger's name. This DPI data record allows the system or server 148 to directly access the PNR 112.

[0302] The DPI data records may include digital baggage item records.

[0303] While certain embodiments can scan the barcode of an IATA bag tag to obtain certain information, the use of an image can be used to obtain the 10-digit license plate and, if necessary, use a portion of the 10-digit license plate to derive the airline code. As noted above, bag tags or portions thereof can be damaged. Therefore, an alternative mechanism for deriving passenger / airline information in a hands-free and accurate manner is proposed herein. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, an image can be used to create the 10-digit IATA license plate so that a B-type message can be accessed to obtain the PNR information leading to the passenger's PNR 112.

[0304] The origin hardcopy bag tag 200 may include space in its layout for printing auxiliary information at the discretion of the airline carrier. The printed passenger information in the image and the resulting DPI data record may also include auxiliary information for navigating to a memory device that stores the passenger return flight information for the return flight.

[0305] The images may be captured in an application 311 that allows a passenger or other user to send the images to the system 100 (i.e., the server 148) via a send button 360. In one or more embodiments, the imaging device 118 may be part of the system 100 or part of the mobile communication device 15.

[0306] 3C illustrates an electronic capture device 118 capturing an image of an originating hardcopy bag tag 200', according to one embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 3C in which an image of an originating hardcopy bag tag 200' is captured by an electronic capture device is essentially the same as the embodiment described above in FIG. 3B. Therefore, only the differences will be described. The image may be captured by a mobile communication device 15.

[0307] The origin hardcopy bag tag 200' shown on display screen 304 is an example of an origin hardcopy bag tag from another airline carrier that has a different layout. The PNR number and 10-digit IATA license plate, for example, may need to be positioned based on the layout of the particular airline.

[0308] Example 3 Another example scenario for obtaining one or more of a PNR number, a passenger name, and / or an IATA license plate using image data from a marker is described with respect to FIG. 3D.

[0309] 3D illustrates an electronic capture device (i.e., imaging device 118) capturing an image of a printed certificate having at least some of the passenger information on an origin hardcopy bag tag, according to one embodiment. In this example, the printed certificate is displayed on display screen 304 and includes marker 212, as described in connection with FIG. 2C. In one or more embodiments, other printed certificates, such as those printed by the passenger at home, can be used. In this example, application 311 can optically recognize some or all of the characters of text on marker 212, as indicated by the dashed box.

[0310] In this example, the license plate, which is at least 10 digits long, may contain a DPI data record, which may include, for example, the passenger's name, for additional verification purposes to locate the PNR number in the B-type message and subsequently navigate to the PNR 112 and create a digital baggage record.

[0311] Example 4 3E provides delivery location data, such as when an IATA license plate 200, marker 212, MK136, or other bar-coded identifier associated with a baggage item is scanned. Location data may be, for example, the current status of a room or cabin.

[0312] In FIG. 3E, computing device 302 shows a displayed message 360, according to one embodiment. Message 360 ​​may include text representing the guest room number to which the baggage item whose printed bag tag was scanned in 3A should be delivered. The displayed message also includes message 355 indicating that the guest room is ready. In one or more embodiments, the displayed message may include message 350 representing the name of the accommodation facility. Additionally, the displayed message may include the scanned bag number.

[0313] For other lodging facilities, such as hotel resorts, the guest room number may be replaced with a room number, or a building number, floor number, and room number. In one or more embodiments, messages 350, 355, and / or 360 may be generated and communicated by messaging system 2790 via server 2710 of FIG.

[0314] Digital BTI Data 4A shows a block diagram of a programming module 400A for checking in baggage items or baggage items and passengers using an origin bag tag identifier for a return flight and generating a manifest for boarding a travel segment, according to one embodiment. Programming module 400A may reside on computing device 122, server 148, or a combination thereof.

[0315] One or more programming modules 400A may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. Computing device 122 and / or server 148 may include at least one processor and / or hardware for executing instructions of programming module 400A.

[0316] The programming module 400A may include a scanned O-BTI data receiver 402A and a license plate parser 404A. The scanned O-BTI data receiver 402A may include program instructions that, when executed, cause it to receive 10 digits embedded in the captured barcode of the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208. The license plate parser 404A may include program instructions that, when executed, analyze a series of digits received from the scanner application 310. The license plate parser 404A may include program instructions that, when executed, track the digits to find the mobile carrier identification (ID) via a mobile carrier ID locator 420A. The license plate parser 404A may include program instructions that, when executed, track the last six or other digits to find the bag number via a bag number locator 422A.

[0317] License plate parser 404A, when executed, may include program instructions that extract the first digit of the converted barcode. In this case, it is the number 7. This digit may be discarded. License plate parser 404A, when executed, may then include program instructions that extract the next three digits using mobile carrier ID locator 420A. In this case, the next three digits include "001," which corresponds to the mobile carrier ID. In this case, the mobile carrier ID corresponds to American Airlines®. License plate parser 404A, when executed, may include program instructions that extract the next six digits, including "509795," using bag number locator 422A. These six digits correspond to the passenger's bag number.

[0318] In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiver 402A may be bypassed if the printed BT 142 is not readable. In this case, the user can directly enter the 10-digit license plate 210, which is then received by the license plate parser 404A to identify the mobile carrier identification and passenger bag number.

[0319] The programming module 400A may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the communication session generator 406 to communicate with at least one of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106. The communication session generator 406 may include a mobile carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address lookup database 424 and PNR access instructions 426. The mobile carrier ID of the license plate 210 may be used to locate predefined instructions for generating electronic communication packets to a server of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106 associated with the mobile carrier ID. The communication session generator 406 may also include program instructions configured, when executed, to extract stored instructions for accessing return leg information from the stored PNR access instructions 426 using a digitally generated passenger bag number extracted from the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208 associated with the license plate 210. The communication instructions may identify information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), File Transfer Protocol (FTS), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).

[0320] In one or more embodiments, the instructions may identify a link in the scanned license plate 210 to a baggage source message (BSM) with passenger information to locate and access the PNR 112 for the passenger and the passenger's return flight information. In one or more embodiments, the link may be, but is not limited to, an HTTP compatible link.

[0321] During the communication session, the computing device 122 can execute programming instructions of the passenger travel return leg retriever 408, where the return leg is the route or portion of the route traveled to return to home 102. For example, if the passenger returns home using the same travel carrier as the original printed bag tag, the PNR 112 will include the return flight information. Alternatively, the return flight information may be marked as null by the system 100.

[0322] The programming module 400A may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the baggage recognition module 410 to recognize baggage items based on the stored images. Image data from the imaging device 118 may be processed by machine learning software to generate an image of the passenger baggage 138. This image may be stored in a database for the passenger baggage recognition process. In some cases, the passenger's baggage may need to be located or identified. The computing device 122 or the server 148 may store the image of the passenger baggage 138, which can be later retrieved. Machine learning algorithms may then be used to recognize the baggage and match the passenger to the passenger's baggage. The image data of the baggage item may be stored as baggage characteristic data 411A. The baggage characteristic data 411A may also include an IATA license plate barcode or characteristics of the baggage item itself. Characteristics may include the color, texture, shape, brand, and other distinguishing features of the baggage item itself. The baggage characteristic data 411A may be used to unlock access to specific information within a baggage manifest record. For example, baggage characteristic data 411A may be required to access return flight information for baggage item check-in. Baggage identification module 410 may include program instructions that, when executed, store passenger image data as passenger biometric data 411B linked to a baggage manifest record. Passenger biometric data 411B may be used to unlock access to specific information within the baggage manifest record. For example, passenger biometric data 411B may provide access to return flight information for baggage item check-in. In one or more embodiments, passenger biometric data 411B may be verified when the originating hard copy bag tag, marker 212, and / or MK136 are lost or damaged.

[0323] In some scenarios, a baggage item may only have one of the originating hard copy bag tag, marker 212, or MK136. As a non-limiting example, marker 212 may be the only tag on the baggage item and does not have the passenger's name printed on it. In this example, marker 212 is on the baggage item, but the passenger may need to be verified if their name is not on the printed document originally issued by the airline to unlock the baggage manifest record and subsequent check-in of the baggage item.

[0324] In one or more embodiments, the originating hard copy bag tag is on the baggage item, but the passenger may need to be verified if their name is not present on the airline's originating hard copy bag tag to unlock the baggage manifest record and subsequent check-in of the baggage item.

[0325] The computing device 122 or the server 148 may use machine learning algorithms to identify whether a particular baggage item has been processed by one or more components of the system 100.

[0326] In some cases, the captured image data of the baggage item may be used to unlock the baggage manifest record, such as for check-in.

[0327] The programming module 400A may include a marker generator 412. The marker generator 412 may include program instructions that, when executed, generate a barcode for use in the format of an MK136 that may be printed by the printing device 120 and affixed to passenger baggage 138. As mentioned above, the MK136 may be used when the original bag tag or airline marker is unavailable or cannot be scanned, such as due to damage.

[0328] Programming module 400A may include a passenger manifest record generator 414, a return leg manifest generator 416, and a manifest communicator 418. The passenger manifest created from the initially printed bag tags that are not discarded may be used to match arriving passengers at lodging facilities and determine room or cabin numbers. The non-discarded printed bag tags populated in the manifest may be used to transport passenger luggage to the passenger's room and / or lodging facility, for example, without the need to generate a temporary valet tag. The non-discarded printed bag tags may also be used for passenger departure from the lodging facility, for example, to return home, without the need to print yet another temporary valet tag.

[0329] The passenger manifest record generator 414 may include program instructions that, when executed, store passenger information 428 and associated PNRs 112 for passengers whose passenger baggage 138 has been scanned by the system 100 in one or more files. The passenger information may include the passenger's first name, middle name or initial, last name, and contact information. For example, the contact information may include the passenger's address. The passenger information may include personally identifiable information (PII).

[0330] Components of the system 100 can store a list of passengers associated with one or more accommodations 126 local to the DP 107, such that passenger baggage 138 associated with passengers not intended to travel through the accommodation 126 is not commingled with passenger baggage 138 associated with the accommodation 126. In one or more embodiments, the passenger information 428 can include passenger information associated with a third-party service provider, a first mode mobile carrier 104, or a prepaid service with the accommodation 126. In one or more embodiments, the passenger information 428 file can include cabin numbers assigned to passengers. Accordingly, the marker generator 412 can include program instructions that, when executed, communicate with the passenger manifest record generator 414 to obtain information, such as cabin number and passenger name, to format and populate fields of a marker printed by the marker generator 412.

[0331] The marker generator 412 may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the printing of the passenger's name, cabin number, IATA license plate barcode of the originating hard copy bag tag, and / or the associated 10-digit IATA license plate. The IATA license plate or IATA barcode of the originating hard copy bag tag may be used as a primary key to the baggage item's information for its travel experience, including check-in for the return flight.

[0332] The return leg manifest generator 416, when executed, may include program instructions for extracting information for the PNR 112, including return leg travel information, including, but not limited to, the travel carrier for the return leg travel mode, the departure time for the return leg travel mode, the flight number, and / or the estimated number of baggage bags that need to be checked in for the return leg to home. The return leg manifest generator 416, when executed, may include program instructions for populating corresponding data fields in a manifest file with the return leg travel information.

[0333] DPI data recording 4B shows a block diagram of a programming module 400B for generating a manifest for checking in a baggage item or baggage items and passengers and boarding a travel segment using digitized origin passenger information associated with a first mode travel carrier on an origin hardcopy printed bag tag, according to one embodiment. Programming module 400B may include program instructions that, when executed, create a DPI data record of a digital baggage item record.

[0334] 4A and 4B are similar, therefore only the differences will be described in detail. Programming module 400B may reside on computing device 122, server 148, or a combination thereof.

[0335] One or more of the programming modules 400B may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The computing device 122 and / or the server 148 may include at least one processor and / or hardware for executing instructions of the programming modules 400B. One or more of the programming modules 400B related to creating machine-coded text from images of bag tags may be included in software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof within the mobile communication device 15.

[0336] The programming module 400B may include an image data receiver 402A. The image data receiver 402A may include program instructions that, when executed, cause it to receive an image of an origin hardcopy bag tag or portion thereof, or a printed document having at least some of the printed information from the origin hardcopy bag tag. The programming module 400B may include a passenger / airline information parser 404B. In one or more embodiments, the passenger / airline information parser 404B may include program instructions that, when executed, optically recognize and convert text characters in the image into a searchable text sequence (i.e., machine-encoded text) to locate a mobile carrier code and / or name via a mobile carrier locator 420B. The mobile carrier locator 420B may include program instructions that, when executed, access an airline code list database 432 to determine available airline codes and matching airline names. Alternatively, if the airline name is found, the airline's two-digit alphabetic code or three-digit numeric code may also be found to verify the airline carrier associated with the origin hardcopy bag tag. Mobile carrier locator 420B may include program instructions that, when executed, find one airline code and verify it by finding the airline name or another airline code at an expected location or license plate.

[0337] The passenger / airline information parser 404B may include program instructions that, when executed, cause a lookup of a BT layout in a BT layout database based on the identified airline code and / or airline name. In one or more embodiments, the BT layout may indicate the format of the PNR number, including whether a PNR indicator is present. The BT layout may identify lines of text, the location of the lines, and the expected text on such lines. In one or more embodiments, the BT layout may identify text constraints, such as presenting passenger names as last name followed by first name, separated by a " / " (i.e., forward slash). These are merely examples of layout possibilities, as each airline may present specific information at its own discretion.

[0338] The passenger / airline information parser 404B may include program instructions that, when executed, optically recognize and convert text characters in an image into a searchable text sequence (i.e., machine-encoded text) and locate the passenger's name via the passenger name locator 421B.

[0339] The passenger / airline information parser 404B may include program instructions that, when executed, optically recognize and convert text characters in an image into a searchable text sequence (i.e., machine-encoded text) in order to locate the PNR number via the PNR number locator 422B.

[0340] The passenger / airline information parser 404B may include program instructions that, when executed, optically recognize text characters in an image and convert them into a searchable text sequence (i.e., machine-encoded text) to identify the location of an IATA license plate. Currently, IATA license plates are 10 digits long and may be expanded over time. From the IATA license plate, a mobile carrier code can be determined, if needed.

[0341] The programming module 400B may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the communication session generator 406 to communicate with at least one of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106. The communication session generator 406 may include a mobile carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address lookup database 424 and PNR access instructions 426. The mobile carrier ID of the license plate 210 may be used to locate predefined instructions for generating electronic communication packets to a server of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106 associated with the mobile carrier ID. The communication session generator 406 may also include program instructions configured, when executed, to use the DPI data record to extract stored instructions for accessing return leg information from the stored PNR access instructions 426. If the DPI data record does not include the PNR number from the originating hard copy bag tag, the license plate may be used to access the PNR number in a B-type message, which includes the license plate as a link index to the PNR number (locator). On the other hand, if the DPI data record contains the PNR number and the airline name or airline code from the originating hard copy bag tag, the instructions to access the PNR 112 can be looked up without having to use a B-type message to obtain the PNR number.

[0342] The communication instructions may identify information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), File Transfer Protocol (FTS), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).

[0343] In one or more embodiments, the programming modules 400A and 400B overlap. This may occur when certain data can no longer be read by scanning a barcode to access a baggage item data record in the baggage manifest, but can be obtained, for example, by optical character recognition. In one or more embodiments, the programming modules 400A, 400B, and 400C may be combined.

[0344] The manifest file includes a conduit for checking in multiple passenger baggage items to the designated return travel carrier. The conduit may include a graphical user interface for remotely checking in each passenger who leaves the accommodation within a designated window prior to the return flight. In one or more embodiments, the passenger manifest record may include digital BTI data, DPI data records, and / or data for baggage or passenger check-in for the return travel segment with the designated return travel carrier for the return flight from the accessed PNR. The passenger manifest record may include other information, such as, for example, the passenger's name and airline code or airline name. The passenger manifest record may include a DPI data record.

[0345] The inventory communicator 418 may include program instructions configured, when executed, to establish a communication session with a travel information system 128 associated with an accommodation 126. The inventory communicator 418 may have different instructions for each travel information system 128 of multiple cruise ship carriers. The communication instructions may identify information associated with the tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

[0346] 1A, certain data may be marked as "PENDING." However, when an IATA barcode associated with a license plate is scanned by a capture device or received by an RFID / NFC receiver associated with or linked to system 100, LIB2450 may be activated for the registered baggage item.

[0347] Extended Type B Message (Outside the Airport) 4C shows a block diagram of a programming module 400C for checking in passenger baggage, generating a manifest for boarding a travel segment, and generating an extended B-type message, according to one embodiment. Programming module 400C may reside on computing device 122, server 148, or a combination thereof. To the extent that programming module 400C is similar to programming modules 400A or 400B, some repeated description may be omitted.

[0348] The programming module 400C may include a scanned O-BTI data receiver 402C and a license plate parser 404C. The scanned O-BTI data receiver 402C may include program instructions that, when executed, cause it to receive 10 digits embedded in the captured barcode of the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208. The license plate parser 404C may include program instructions that, when executed, analyze a series of digits received from the scanner application 310. The license plate parser 404C may include program instructions that, when executed, track the digits to find the mobile carrier identification (ID) via a mobile carrier ID locator 420C. The license plate parser 404C may include program instructions that, when executed, track the last six or other digits to locate the bag number via a bag number locator 422C.

[0349] License plate parser 404C, when executed, may include program instructions that extract the first digit of the converted barcode. In this case, it is the number 7. This digit may be discarded. License plate parser 404C, when executed, may then include program instructions that extract the next three digits using mobile carrier ID locator 420C. In this case, the next three digits include "001," which corresponds to the mobile carrier ID. In this case, the mobile carrier ID corresponds to American Airlines®. License plate parser 404C, when executed, may then include program instructions that extract the next six digits, including "509795," using bag number locator 422C. These six digits correspond to the passenger's bag number.

[0350] In one or more embodiments, the scanned O-BTI data receiver 402C may be bypassed if the printed BT 142 is not readable. In this case, the user can directly enter the 10-digit license plate 210, which is then received by the license plate parser 404C to identify the mobile carrier identification and passenger bag number.

[0351] The programming module 400C may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the communication session generator 406 to communicate with at least one of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106. The communication session generator 406 may include a mobile carrier Internet Protocol (IP) address lookup database 424 and PNR access instructions 426. The mobile carrier ID of the license plate 210 may be used to locate predefined instructions for generating electronic communication packets to a server of the first mode mobile carrier 104 and / or the intermediate mobile carrier 106 associated with the mobile carrier ID. The communication session generator 406 may also include program instructions configured, when executed, to extract stored instructions for accessing return leg information from the stored PNR access instructions 426 using a digitally generated passenger bag number extracted from the first barcode flight identifier 206 or the second barcode flight identifier 208 associated with the license plate 210. The communication instructions may identify information associated with the tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

[0352] In one or more embodiments, the instructions may identify a link in the scanned license plate 210 to a baggage source message (BSM) containing passenger information to locate and access the PNR 112 for the passenger and the passenger's return flight information. In one or more embodiments, the link may be, but is not limited to, an HTTP-compatible link. Each airline may format the BSM or other B-type message with additional data fields. However, the B-type message conforms to the IATA B-type code.

[0353] During the communication session, the computing device 122 can execute programming instructions of the passenger travel return leg retriever 408, where the return leg is the route or portion of the route traveled to return to home 102. For example, if the passenger returns home using the same travel carrier as the original printed bag tag, the PNR 112 will include the return flight information. Alternatively, the return flight information may be marked as null by the system 100.

[0354] The programming module 400C may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the passenger baggage recognition module 410 to recognize a baggage item from at least one image of the baggage. Image data from the imaging device 118 or other camera-enabled device may be processed by machine learning software to generate an image of the passenger baggage 138. This image may be stored in a database for the passenger baggage recognition process. In some cases, the passenger's baggage may need to be located or identified. The computing device 122 or the server 148 may store the image of the passenger baggage 138, which can be retrieved at a later time. Machine learning algorithms may then be used to recognize the baggage and match the passenger to the passenger's baggage. One or more embodiments.

[0355] The computing device 122 or the server 148 may use machine learning algorithms to identify whether a particular baggage item has been processed by one or more components of the system 100.

[0356] Programming module 400C may include a marker generator 412. Marker generator 412 may include program instructions that, when executed, generate a barcode for use in the format of MK136, which may be printed by printing device 120 and affixed to passenger baggage 138. As mentioned above, MK136 may be used when the original bag tag or airline marker is unavailable or cannot be scanned, such as due to damage.

[0357] The marker generator 412, when executed, includes instructions for associating a unique identifier of a marker certificate to a baggage item without a bag tag or marker, or to a baggage item with a bag tag or marker without a passenger's name. The marker certificate may be a paper tag or an electronic tag that may be used temporarily to associate a unique identifier with a baggage item. The intended operation of the system 100 is to maintain the origin bag tag, marker, or bingo marker on the baggage item. However, these paper items can be damaged or lost. In this instance, the scan used to capture the IATA bag tag may be overridden to scan a replacement unique identifier to replace the missing IATA bag tag.

[0358] The LIB2450 can be generated using this replacement or temporary unique identifier. In some cases, the unique identifier may be used within a travel vehicle to create a LIB2450 for a baggage item if the baggage item does not have any other travel segments. Systems within the accommodation facility can use the unique identifier as a primary key.

[0359] Programming module 400C may include a passenger manifest record generator 414, a return leg manifest generator 416, and a manifest communicator 418. The passenger manifest created from the initially printed bag tags that are not discarded may be used to match arriving passengers at lodging facilities and determine room or cabin numbers. The non-discarded printed bag tags populated in the manifest may be used to transport passenger luggage to the passenger's room and / or lodging facility, for example, without the need to generate a temporary valet tag. The non-discarded printed bag tags may also be used for passenger departure from the lodging facility, for example, to return home, without the need to print yet another temporary valet tag.

[0360] The passenger manifest record generator 414 may include program instructions that, when executed, store passenger information 428 and associated PNRs 112 for passengers whose passenger baggage 138 has been scanned by the system 100 in one or more files. The passenger information may include the passenger's first name, middle name or initial, last name, and contact information. For example, the contact information may include the passenger's address. The passenger information may include personally identifiable information (PII). However, PII in a designated manifest may be protected and not shared. The IATA license plate, passenger name (optional), and PNR number may be used as a link to keep the PII private.

[0361] Components of the system 100 can store a list of passengers for one or more accommodations 126 local to the destination point DP 107, so that passenger baggage 138 of passengers not intended to travel via the accommodation 126 is not commingled with passenger baggage 138 of the accommodation 126. In one or more embodiments, the passenger information 428 may include information associated with a third-party service provider, a first mode mobile carrier 104, or a prepaid service with the accommodation 126. In one or more embodiments, the passenger information 428 may include a cabin number assigned to the passenger. Accordingly, the marker generator 412 may communicate with the passenger manifest record generator 414 to obtain information, such as the cabin number and passenger name, to format and populate fields of the marker printed by the marker generator 412.

[0362] The marker generator 412 may include program instructions that, when executed, generate a marker indicating whether the baggage item can bypass security screening for the next mode of travel. The instructions may also generate information related to the next mode of travel, such as a room or cabin number and / or other baggage delivery information. In an alternative embodiment, if the baggage item does not pass the security screening process according to ISSS 2670, the MK 136 indicates a screening failure and the need to send the baggage item for security screening for the next mode of travel.

[0363] The return leg manifest generator 416, when executed, may include program instructions for extracting information for the PNR 112, including return leg travel information, including, but not limited to, the travel carrier for the return leg travel mode, the departure time for the return leg travel mode, the flight number, and / or the estimated number of baggage bags that need to be checked in for the return leg to home. The return leg manifest generator 416, when executed, may include program instructions for populating corresponding data fields in a manifest file with the return leg travel information.

[0364] The manifest file may include a conduit for checking in multiple passenger baggage items with a designated return travel carrier. The conduit may include a graphical user interface for remotely checking in each passenger baggage item departing the lodging facility within a designated time window prior to the return flight. In one or more embodiments, the passenger manifest record includes digital BTI data, a PNR number, and data for checking in the passenger or passenger baggage items for the return travel leg with a designated return travel carrier.

[0365] In one or more embodiments, server 148 and server 2710 may include a conduit for checking in passenger baggage with at least the airline carrier for the return flight.

[0366] The inventory communicator 418 may include program instructions configured, when executed, to establish a communication session with a travel information system 128 associated with the accommodation 126. The inventory communicator 418 may have different instructions for each travel information system 128 of multiple cruise ship carriers. The communication instructions may identify information associated with the tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein.

[0367] Programming module 400C may include an extended type B message generator 430. As described in more detail below, an exemplary extended type B message is shown in FIG. 14C. Programming module 400C may include an origin IATA bag tag recycler 409A and a return flight origin IATA bag tag recycler 409B. The return flight origin IATA bag tag recycler 409B may include program instructions configured, when executed, to initiate the unpacking of the type B message created for the return flight. The origin IATA bag tag recycler 409A may include program instructions configured, when executed, to initiate the unpacking of the type B message for the origin flight. For example, when the check-in baggage process for the return flight begins, recycling by origin IATA bag recycler 409A may need to be terminated.

[0368] Programming module 400 may include program instructions that, when executed, cause simulated B-type message generator 431 to generate a simulated B-type message for a return flight or for an originating flight, such as that shown and described in connection with FIG. 14B. According to one or more embodiments, the extended B-type message may include at least three data fields from the airline's B-type message. A first field includes a field with an IATA bag tag number. A second field may include the passenger's name. A third field may include the PNR. These fields allow for retrieval of return flight information at any time using the originating IATA bag tag number, including any updates. In one or more embodiments, if the IATA bag tag number is not available when the simulated B-type message is generated, a temporary unique identifier is used in the field or line with the prefix ".N / " used for the sequence of digits representing the bag tag number. In the example of an originating flight, the field or line with the prefix ".N / " may contain a temporary unique identifier until the IATA bag tag number can be obtained from the airline's DCS or a simulated DCS that creates IATA bag tag numbers away from the airline or airport infrastructure. In one or more embodiments, the simulated DCS may have its own IATA two-letter or digit code.

[0369] The simulated B-type message or simulated BSM may be used as a placeholder to pre-fill a BSM or other B-type message for checking in a baggage item to assign an IATA license plate number. The simulated BSM may also be used to print a marker for the baggage item, as described in connection with FIG. 15. In one or more embodiments, a marker (i.e., MK) needs to be printed because the origin bag tag is damaged or missing. A simulated BSM may be created to create a marker MK 136 (FIG. 1B) to be affixed to a baggage item when there is no bag tag associated with the baggage item, such as may be required for a new baggage item.

[0370] Programming modules 400A and 400B may also have program instructions that, when executed, cause simulated type B message generator 431 to generate a simulated type B message for the return flight or for the outbound flight as shown and described in connection with FIG. 14B.

[0371] Programming module 400C, when executed, may include program instructions that cause multi-mode reservation synchronizer 433 to synchronize reservations for travel journeys of baggage items or passengers and their baggage items. Each passenger's travel to an accommodation, such as a resort or cruise ship, may include air travel and other modes of travel selected from bus travel carriers, train travel carriers, additional air travel carriers, and ferry travel carriers. Ferries may include accommodations for travel from one port to another. These ports may be in different countries. This type of travel differs from a cruise where passengers depart and return from the same port.

[0372] A passenger trip may include a multi-modal reservation with multiple accommodation stays across multiple states or multiple countries. The original bag tag number from the printed airline license plate and / or the associated RF unique code representing the original bag tag number linked to the baggage item may be used as a primary key to record and track all travel reservations and their updates accessible via recycled, non-discarded machine-readable bag tags.

[0373] System 2700 may include a generic travel passenger itinerary 2714. The stored data in generic travel passenger itinerary 2714 may change before boarding the first travel leg, after boarding the first travel leg and arriving at the destination, or before boarding any leg of travel on the return route home. System 100, 2700 and / or 3100 may synchronize travel modes by updating reservation information data with updates in generic travel passenger itinerary 2714 and communicating the updates to the passenger.

[0374] In one or more embodiments, prior to the start of a travel leg, the server 148 or 2710 may contact any of the reservation systems associated with the generic travel passenger itinerary 2714 to obtain any changes to flight, bus, train, or accommodation information. Extended B type messages may be updated.

[0375] The programming module 400C may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the baggage tracker 434 to track the location of the baggage item. The original IATA bag tag is used as a recycled machine-readable tag that remains on the baggage item without the need for another tag on the baggage item, for example, until the passenger disembarks from their accommodation and departs for their return journey home, as long as the original IATA bag tag is not damaged or lost. Once the recycled unique identifier of the non-discarded machine-readable bag tag is acquired, such as by scanning or via an RF communication device, a location code or geotag may be added to the generated communication stream of image data and recorded with the data. This allows the location where the baggage item cleared customs to be tracked by the acquisition device.

[0376] Recycling IATA bag tags for use outside the airport The LIB2450 and extended B-type messages described herein are example mechanisms for providing electronic brains to baggage items associated with passengers. The extended B-type messages provide an exemplary coding scheme. While airlines use remote check-in procedures to allow baggage items to be checked in for airline flights at off-airport locations (i.e., cruise ships and train stations), the inventors have determined that an originating printed bag tag, such as after a flight, can be used as a marker and conduit to allow baggage to be checked in for a return flight. The remote check-in process at off-airport locations requires robust workstations and printers. These printers capable of printing IATA bag tags at off-airport locations are very expensive and can sometimes become overloaded. The inventors have determined that recycling the originating IATA printed bag tag and associated unique identifier to access return flight information, such as within a regulated check-in window, and printing the return flight bag tag at a designated printing location off-airport, expedites the baggage check-in process and eliminates the need for a valet tag.

[0377] As a non-limiting example, passenger baggage leaving a cruise ship needs to be processed within 24 or 48 hours. This may require printing boarding passes, valet tags, and bag tags, or any combination thereof. However, cruise ships can have thousands of passengers, each with multiple baggage items. One attempt to solve this logistical challenge was the "Detachable Single-Page Printable Boarding Pass and Tag Identifier Document" shown in U.S. Design Patent No. D862590, issued on October 8, 2019. This document allowed for the printing of boarding passes and bag tags on a single document. The document had perforations for removal and adhesive for attaching bag tags to baggage items. However, such advances to conserve human resources, paper resources, and other processing infrastructure were still insufficient to process thousands of passengers disembarking from cruise ships or other large resorts and address delays due to equipment malfunctions or other computer technology glitches caused by wireless communication interruptions, adverse weather conditions, etc. Additionally, printing bag tags on cruise ships, for example, still required ship real estate that could be used for other revenue.

[0378] In one or more embodiments, a passenger may travel a different route than their baggage during a portion of their journey. Current processes do not provide seamless baggage identification throughout the journey experience. This can lead to a cumbersome and costly journey experience for all parties in the journey and destination network. For example, this can result in lost or delayed baggage arrival due to changes in travel itinerary, or a less seamless baggage journey experience. A late arrival at a departing cruise ship or lost baggage during the journey can be devastating for a passenger.

[0379] The inventors have determined that the originating printed bag tag affixed to a baggage item should remain with the baggage item and be recycled until the baggage item is checked in for a return flight, preserving the originating IATA bag tag number on a pre-printed, machine-readable medium that is tied to the verified passenger identity.

[0380] Before the passenger lands from the originating flight, system 100 or 2700 can initiate a recycling process to recycle the originating IATA bag tag number into a generic bag tag unique identifier for use outside of the airport infrastructure. The transition to the generic bag tag unique identifier is seamless and can be used at an off-airport location from the moment the passenger's baggage is unloaded from the first mode mobile carrier or intermediate mobile carrier aircraft and leaves the custody of the airport infrastructure without the passenger needing to be present.

[0381] The (recycled) origin IATA bag tag number may be captured by an acquisition device at an off-airport location to create a digital data record for use as a primary key or unique identifier, recording the location and timestamp of any mode of travel of the baggage, or location along a leg. This allows passengers to initiate updates to the information for locating baggage items even when they are not present. The acquisition device (i.e., scanning device, mobile communication device, video-enabled computing device, RF communication device) can provide a geographic location code along with communication with image data captured by the acquisition device or RF communication from the RF communication device.

[0382] The programming module 400C may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the lodging coordinator 436 to determine if any changes have been made to the lodging reservation, such as the room or guest room number, and notify the passenger or bag handler of any reservation changes before dropping off the baggage. In one or more embodiments, the room or guest room number may not be cleaned / ready. Once the room or guest room number is ready, the extended type B message is updated with the current status. The lodging coordinator 436 may include program instructions that, when executed, are configured to communicate with or receive communication from the smart baggage movement system 2700. As a non-limiting example, the extended type B message may be extended with a link to the reservation data of the passenger's itinerary.

[0383] The programming module 400C may include a smart luggage moving communicator 438. When information associated with the extended B type message changes, the smart luggage moving communicator 438 may include program instructions configured, when executed, to communicate any updated information to a computing device of one of the luggage handlers and the passenger. The computing device may be a mobile communication device or an acquisition device. Details of the communication will become more apparent in the following description. The communication instructions may identify information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) described herein. The smart luggage moving communicator 438 may communicate with the smart luggage moving system 2700 of FIG. 27, described below. The communication instructions may identify information associated with tools (i.e., programming instructions) compatible with Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), File Transfer Protocol (FTS), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).

[0384] The methods described herein below show a particular sequence of operations. The sequence can be modified without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, some of the operations shown may be performed in parallel or in a different order without substantially affecting the functionality of the method. In other examples, different components of an example device or system implementing a method may perform functions substantially simultaneously or in a particular order.

[0385] 5 illustrates a method 500 for checking in a baggage item, a passenger, or a passenger and a baggage item, according to one embodiment. In one or more embodiments, a passenger may need to be checked in first, followed by checking in the baggage item. In one or more embodiments, a passenger may be required to first check in a boarding pass printed or received on a personal computing device (i.e., a mobile computing device), and then check in the baggage item. The DCS or other designated system may provide sequence numbers that are used to trigger each step of the check-in process.

[0386] Method 500 may include, at block 501, generating a passenger manifest record using a PNR number to access the passenger's PNR. An exemplary process for performing this function is described in Figure 10A. In one or more embodiments, Figure 10B may be performed at block 501.

[0387] The method 500 creates a digital license plate number from the printed BT for use in, for example, obtaining return flight information. In one or more embodiments, the method 500 begins after the passenger has completed their leg of travel at the DP 107.

[0388] FIG. 10A shows a flowchart of a method 1001A for generating return flight information from a PNR using a PNR number captured from scanned data, as obtained in FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 10A, at block 1002A, method 1001A begins after completion of a passenger's travel leg using a first mode travel carrier. At block 1004A, method 1001A includes obtaining an origin bag tag identifier, such as a 10-digit license plate. The process of obtaining the origin bag tag identifier may include using a scanner to scan an origin bag tag identifier (O-BTI) on a printed bag tag of the first baggage item to create scanned or digital BTI data, where the printed O-BTI is linked to the first mode travel carrier. As a non-limiting example, the scanner may be a barcode scanner.

[0389] In some cases, obtaining the origin bag tag identifier may include receiving an RFID signal including information representative of the origin bag tag identifier. In other embodiments, obtaining the 10-digit license plate may include scanning an airline marker with an adhesive backing that may be on or attached to the baggage. In some cases, the airline marker with an adhesive backing is part of the original boarding pass received from an airline agent at check-in for the original flight.

[0390] In summary, assume the first mode mobile carrier is an airline. Then, electronically capturing by at least one electronic capturing device can include at least one of: i) scanning by a barcode scanner an OP-BTI on a printed paper bag tag from the airline carrier affixed to the passenger's first baggage item; ii) scanning by a barcode scanner an OP-BTI on a printed marker from the airline affixed to the first baggage item; iii) reading or capturing by an RFID reader RFID information associated with the OP-BTI; and iv) receiving by radio frequency communication a wireless communication including the OP-BTI.

[0391] In block 1006A, method 1001A may include extracting, by at least one processor, the IATA license plate of the baggage item from the scanned O-BTI data. Block 1006A may include extracting a mobile carrier code from the scanned or digital BTI data. In one or more embodiments, block 1006A may include extracting the printed text by optically recognizing the printed text, converting the text into a searchable text format, searching for and locating the printed passenger information, and creating a DPI data record therefrom.

[0392] In block 1008A, the method 1001A may include, by at least one processor, accessing a passenger booking record (PNR) from a second processor associated with the first mode mobile carrier based on the digitally generated O-BTI or the digitally generated 10-digit license plate of the passenger's baggage item.

[0393] In block 1010A, method 1001A may include, by at least one processor, autonomously creating a baggage manifest record or passenger manifest record from the accessed PNR 112 for the return travel leg of the baggage item or passenger and baggage item by the designated return airline mobile carrier. The passenger manifest record may include digital BTI data and the PNR, the data for checking in the passenger or passenger's baggage item for the return travel leg by the designated return mobile carrier. The passenger manifest record may be populated with the mobile carrier code embedded in the scanned O-BTI or accessed PNR 112. The passenger manifest record may be associated with the passenger's digital BTI data to track and handle the passenger's baggage item before and after the passenger stays at a large accommodation facility. For example, the large accommodation facility may be located on Disney™ property or other resort destination with accommodations.

[0394] A passenger manifest record may have different information than a baggage manifest record. For example, in one embodiment, a passenger is scheduled to board a cruise ship but arrives a day early and has a rental car. In this scenario, the passenger may arrive at a hotel for an overnight stay without needing to check-in baggage items. The baggage manifest may not need information about the rental car. Furthermore, the baggage items may travel independently of the passenger and skip the hotel transfer and head directly to the cruise ship.

[0395] At block 512, method 500 may include repeating block 501 for passengers boarding a travel leg to multiple baggage items and / or accommodations.

[0396] The method 500 may include, at block 514, setting the origin hard copy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) as the baggage item primary key (i.e., the 10-digit license plate) for handling and tracking the baggage item.

[0397] The method 500 may include, at block 516, creating a simulated baggage source message (BSM) for each of the multiple passengers added to the manifest, populated with the digital BTI data record and / or machine-encoded text from the originating hardcopy bag tag. Block 516 may be performed if the baggage item and / or passenger cannot be checked in for the return flight. For example, the passenger may disembark from the cruise ship and remain at a nearby lodging facility. The system 100 may create the simulated BSM as a placeholder for checking in the baggage item and / or passenger for the return flight within a specified check-in window.

[0398] Method 500 may include, at block 518, electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag from the airline mobile carrier carrying the passenger baggage item to create a digital BTI data record within a check-in window for checking in the baggage item or passenger and baggage item. In one or more embodiments, the simulated BSM may be accessed to retrieve the information.

[0399] In other embodiments, a designated button in a GUI or a key on a keyboard may be used as the trigger. The OP-BTI obtained in block 518 may be on the MK 136, as described in FIG. 15. The OP-BTI may be on a printed document, such as the marker 212. The OP-BTI may be associated with an RFID or NFC device.

[0400] At block 520, the method 500 may include performing a check-in process for each passenger's return journey with the designated return travel carrier using a graphical user interface (GUI) populated with information from the passenger manifest record and associated with the retrieved OP-BTI.

[0401] Block 501 may be repeated for each baggage item of a passenger of a plurality of passengers beginning a stay associated with an accommodation to autonomously create a baggage manifest file having conduits for checking in the plurality of baggage items to a designated return travel carrier, or a passenger manifest file having conduits for checking in the plurality of passengers to a designated return travel carrier.

[0402] In one or more embodiments, method 1001A may include populating, by at least one processor, a manifest file with each passenger manifest record or baggage manifest record created for the accommodation.

[0403] Block 1008A of method 1001A may include identifying a mobile carrier from the scanned O-BTI data and identifying a stored communication session procedure for communicating with the mobile carrier based on the scanned or digital O-BTI data. The stored communication session procedure may identify, by at least one processor, a communication protocol for accessing passenger name records (PNRs) from a remote second processor (i.e., mobile information system 108 or 110) associated with the mobile carrier over a communication network using a communication format described herein.

[0404] The process for performing the check-in process of block 520 for return travel by a designated return travel carrier can also use stored communication instructions to control a remote second processor to check in a passenger for the passenger's return travel leg, e.g., to return home within a predetermined check-in window. The check-in process performed may be for a baggage item, a passenger, or both a baggage item and a passenger. For example, a passenger may check themselves online using standard processes specified by the airline travel carrier and the airline industry. Thus, system 100 need only check in the baggage item for the return flight. However, if the passenger does not check themselves in before system 100 is ready to check in the baggage item for the return flight, system 100 may check in both the passenger and baggage item for the return flight.

[0405] For example, a passenger may check in with an airline carrier or other entity for a return leg flight using a computing or mobile communication device such as a smartphone, tablet, notebook, or laptop. Passenger check-in may be completely separate from the baggage check-in process. In one or more embodiments, a passenger may be checked in by, for example, a computing system at an accommodation facility that communicates with the return leg flight airline carrier.

[0406] 10B shows a flowchart of a method 1001B for generating return flight information from a PNR using a PNR number captured from image data, according to one embodiment. According to one example, method 1001B may be performed at block 501 of method 500. At block 1002B, method 1001B may begin after printing of an origin hardcopy bag tag associated with a first mode (origin) mobile carrier, such as an airline carrier, for a passenger's checked-in baggage item. The image may be captured at any time. Alternatively, the image may be of a printed document having at least a portion of the passenger / airline information on the origin hardcopy bag tag.

[0407] It should be understood that the methods described herein can be performed on any mobile carrier that generates hard copy bag tags and structured numeric arrays for identifying bag tags affixed to baggage items.

[0408] In block 1004B, method 1001B may include electronically receiving, by at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier. The originating hardcopy bag tag may be issued by the originating airline mobile carrier to the passenger's checked-in baggage item.

[0409] The method 1001B may include, at block 1006B, accessing, by at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record.

[0410] 6 shows a block diagram of a programming module 600 for generating a master inventory, according to one embodiment. Programming module 600 can communicate with multiple computing devices having programming module 400A (or, alternatively, programming module 400′) executing thereon. Programming module 600 can be stored by a computing device associated with mobile information system 128 or other mobile management system. In one or more embodiments, one or more of programming modules 600 can be stored on server 148.

[0411] In one or more embodiments, server 148 and mobile information system 128 may be integrated into the same computing system. In other embodiments, server 148 may be integrated into mobile information system 108 or 110.

[0412] The programming modules 600 may include an inventory merger 602, a master inventory generator 604, and a return leg sorter 606. One or more of the programming modules 400A, 400B (or alternatively, 400C) may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware. A computing device associated with the mobile information system 128 may include at least one processor and / or hardware for executing instructions of the one or more programming modules 600.

[0413] The programming module 600 may include a manifest graphical user interface (GUI) 608 that may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the manifest merger 602 to merge passenger manifest files from multiple computing devices 122, servers 148, or systems 100 for the current route. For example, a computing device associated with a mobile information system 128 may communicate with multiple systems 100, and each system 100 may have multiple computing devices 122. The passenger manifest file includes multiple passenger manifest records created by the passenger manifest record generator 414 and the return leg manifest generator 416 populated with information accessed from the PNR 112. The passenger manifest record generator 414 may be used to create a baggage manifest (FIG. 1A or FIG. 1D) linked to the passenger manifest. The baggage manifest may include return leg information for the return flight with the designated return airline, travel carrier, or another mode of travel, and any designated government screening locations for entering or exiting the country before the next mode of travel.

[0414] It should be understood from the disclosure herein that there may be multiple local destinations, each serviced by a different system 100. For example, DP 107 may be at a local train station that is local to the port of accommodation 126. DP 107 may be at a local bus station that is local to the port of accommodation 126. DP 107 may be at each local airport that is local to the port of accommodation 126. The term "local" may refer to, for example, a travel distance of less than 5-20 miles, 20-50 miles, or 51-100 miles to accommodation 126. For example, accommodation may dock at a port in a state that has multiple airports, multiple train stations, multiple bus stops, etc., any of which may be used to allow passengers to arrive as close to the port as possible based on their departure point and travel costs.

[0415] The inventory GUI 608 may interface with a master inventory generator 604 and a return leg sorter 606. The master inventory generator 604 may include program instructions that, when executed, merge those files received from one or more systems 100 and a list of booked passengers stored by the travel information system 128 into a master inventory file populated with information derived from digitized O-BTI or DPI data records. The master inventory file is populated with accessed information from PNRs 112 associated with the passenger's return leg of travel whose BTs 142 have been scanned or imaged and processed by the system 100.

[0416] For example, at a cruise ship port, some passengers arrive the same day the cruise ship boards. In other instances, passengers may arrive one or more days prior to boarding. Furthermore, PNRs 112 for passengers boarding the same cruise line may be merged into a master manifest file. As a non-limiting example, a third-party service provider may manage baggage for multiple cruise ships at a port.

[0417] Each cruise ship has its own master manifest file. Manifest passenger records populated based on information in the PNR 112 may be displayed on a display device using a manifest GUI 608. The manifest GUI 608 is a computer program that allows a user to view, for example, passenger information records and their return leg flight information. The passenger records may also include the passenger's cabin number on the current route. The return leg flight information may include, but is not limited to, one or more of: travel carrier information, travel carrier geographic location, flight number, flight departure time, and flight arrival time. The manifest GUI 608 may display information used to create the DPI data record.

[0418] Master manifest generator 604 may include program instructions that, when executed, cause the generated master manifest file to be displayed on a display device using a manifest GUI 608. The manifest GUI 608 may also include program instructions that, when executed, cause a return leg sorter 606 to allow personnel to sort the manifest by data associated with return flights or return leg modes that satisfy the check-in window for the return leg.

[0419] Without wishing to be bound by theory, automating the process of accessing PNR 112 data based on a digital recreation of the 10-digit license plate or PNR number on the bag tag and using the accessed data to populate the manifest and / or check-in the passenger (or passenger's baggage) for the return leg of the journey saves valuable human resources on the cruise ship and resources on the return journey carrier.

[0420] Passenger itineraries for disembarking the cruise ship (i.e., accommodations) can vary. Some passengers may want to explore the state, city, or town where the cruise ship docks and arrive a few days before disembarking.

[0421] In one or more embodiments, system 100 can initiate, for example, via server 148, retrieval or capture of a terminal B-type message indicating the end of a passenger baggage item being handled for a current travel leg, such as for a first mode of travel by an airline mobile carrier, from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier or baggage handling system that issues the B-type message. In other embodiments, system 100 can access, via server 148, these terminal B-type messages stored on a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier or baggage handling system that issues the B-type message.

[0422] The server 148 can sort the terminal B-type messages and match passenger names in the B-type messages with passenger names in the manifest file.

[0423] The processor can sort a master manifest file having information associated with passenger manifest records by return leg flight time or other indicated time using the manifest GUI 608. The processor can execute a check-in process for each passenger's return journey by their designated return travel carrier based on the sorted master manifest file. In one or more embodiments, the master manifest file is for a resort destination, which can include at least one hotel.

[0424] In one or more embodiments, the data regarding baggage check-in for the return leg may include at least a return leg flight time, an airline carrier, and a PNR number. The method herein may include sorting, by at least one processor, a master manifest file having information associated with return leg flight times for a plurality of passengers, and performing, by the at least one processor, a remote check-in process for baggage for the return leg with each passenger's designated return leg carrier based on the sorted master manifest file.

[0425] Computer Hardware Referring now to FIG. 7, in a basic configuration, a computing device 700 (i.e., a computing device 122 or a local computing device) may include any type of fixed computing device, a server 148, a personal computer (PC), or a mobile computing device.

[0426] Computing device 700 may include one or more processing devices 706 and system memory in the form of a hard drive. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device 700, the system memory may be volatile (such as RAM 702), non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM 704), flash memory, etc.), or some combination of the two. The system memory may store an operating system and one or more applications 724, and may include program data for executing at least one of programming modules 149 described above in connection with FIGS. 1A and 1D, 400A-400B (and 400C) described above in connection with FIGS. 4A-4C, programming module 600 described above in connection with FIG. 6, programming module 2000 described above in connection with FIG. 20, and programming module 2400 described above in connection with FIG. 24.

[0427] The computing device 700, via the application 724, can execute one or more blocks of method 500 of FIG. 5, methods 800A and 800B of FIGS. 8A-8B, methods 900A, 900B, 900C, and 900D of FIGS. 9A-9D, method 1001A or 1001B of FIG. 10A or 10B, method 1100 of FIG. 11, method 1102 of FIGS. 12A-12C, and method 1300 of FIG. 13 described herein. Computing device 700, via application 724, may perform one or more blocks of method 1800 of Figures 18A-18B, method 1900 of Figure 19, method 2200 of Figure 22, method 2300 of Figure 23, methods 2600A and 2600B of Figures 26A-26B, method 2800 of Figure 28, method 3300 of Figure 33, method 3302 of Figure 34, and method 3500 of Figure 35. Computing device 700 may also have additional features or functionality. By way of non-limiting example, computing device 700 may also include additional data storage media device(s) 708 (removable and / or non-removable), such as, for example, a magnetic disk, optical disk, or tape. The computer storage media device 708 may include volatile and nonvolatile, non-transitory, removable, and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of data, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. System memory, removable storage, and non-removable storage are all non-limiting examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media may include, but is not limited to, RAM 702, ROM 704, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other physical medium that can be used to store desired data and that can be accessed by the computing device 700. Any such computer storage media may be part of the device.

[0428] The computing device 700 may also include or have an input / output (I / O) interface 712 for an input module 714, such as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc. The input module 714 may include the video device, imaging device 118, and / or scanner 116 shown in FIG. 1B. The computing device may include or have an I / O interface 712 for connection to output devices, such as a display, presentation module 716, speakers, etc. A graphical user interface (GUI) 718 may be displayed on the presentation module 716. The computing device 700 may include a peripheral bus 710 for connecting to peripherals. The computing device 700 may include communication connections that allow the device to communicate with other computing devices, such as over a network or a wireless network.

[0429] By way of example, and not limitation, communication connections may include wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media, such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. Computing device 700 may include a network interface 720, such as a network interface card, for connecting (wired or wirelessly) to a network or other communication conduit 722.

[0430] In one embodiment, the computing device 700 may also include an accelerometer (ACC) 735, a gyroscope, a global positioning system (GPS) 737, and / or an inertial navigation unit (INU) 740 to determine the location of the computing device 700, such as a mobile communication device, scanning device, computing device, or other RF communication device. The location data of the computing device 700 used to obtain the OP-BTI includes the location data of the baggage item and a timestamp associated with the location data.

[0431] Computer program code for carrying out the operations described above can be written in a variety of programming languages, including, but not limited to, high-level programming languages ​​such as C, C++, Python, Java, etc., for development convenience. Furthermore, computer program code for carrying out the operations of the embodiments described herein may also be written in other programming languages, such as, but not limited to, interpreted languages. Some modules or routines may be written in assembly language or microcode to improve performance and / or memory usage. It will be understood that any or all of the functionality of the program modules may also be implemented using discrete hardware components, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or programmed digital signal processors (DSPs) or microcontrollers. Furthermore, the program code of the above-described embodiments may be stored as firmware in RAM, ROM, flash memory, etc. Alternatively, it may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a magnetic tape, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a compact disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a digital versatile disk (DVD).

[0432] Embodiments may be configured for use in a computer or data processing device that includes a central processing unit (CPU), memory such as RAM and ROM, and a storage medium such as a hard disk.

[0433] In one or more embodiments, when the computing device is a server, the server may be one or more servers, and the server may be a virtual server.

[0434] 8A illustrates a flowchart of a method 800A for checking in luggage (i.e., baggage items) of a passenger departing or leaving a lodging facility, according to one embodiment. While the exemplary method 800A illustrates a particular sequence of operations, the sequence may be modified without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, some of the illustrated operations may be performed in parallel or in a different order without substantially affecting the functionality of the method 800A. In other examples, different components of an exemplary device or system implementing the method 800A may perform functions substantially simultaneously or in a particular order. In one or more embodiments, one or more blocks disclosed herein may be omitted or blocks may be added.

[0435] According to some examples, method 800A includes, at block 802, checking in passenger baggage from an accommodation for a return flight. If the first mode travel carrier is an airline, method 800A may determine whether a baggage check-in window is open. For example, flight passengers and / or passenger baggage may be allowed to check in within 24 to 48 hours of the return flight departure. Train travel carriers may have different windows.

[0436] According to some examples, method 800A includes generating a bag tag identifier and an IATA license plate at block 804. In some examples, the return flight IATA license plate may be generated by a DCS or other airline host computer system designated to generate IATA license plates for airline carriers. "Generating" may vary from airline to airline, mode to mode, and situation to situation. For example, server 2710 or server 148 may include a programming module for assigning a unique identifier that matches the IATA license plate and associated barcode. Server 2710 or server 148 may also include a programming module for formatting the bag tag in a format that matches the IATA bag tag format, as shown in FIG. 2A or 2D .

[0437] According to one or more embodiments, method 800A includes printing, by a printing device, a bag tag having a license plate at block 806. When a passenger's baggage is checked in, such as for a flight, one or more IATA B-type messages are generated that include baggage details such as inbound and outbound airport codes and dates, a 10-digit bag tag identifier, the passenger's name, and PNR information.

[0438] In one or more embodiments, the printing device may print marker tags that can be adhesively attached to the baggage items.

[0439] In one or more embodiments, the method may include communicating information associated with the 10-digit bag tag identifier of the return flight to the passenger so that the passenger can locate and track their baggage during the final return travel segment, such as using the IATA 10-digit bag tag identifier.

[0440] Method 800A may include, during an ongoing remote / return baggage check-in process, obtaining, by at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return leg of the passenger's checked-in baggage items, and printing, by a printer, new bag tags for the return leg that match the IATA license plate of each of the passenger's checked-in baggage items. System 100 may email or text the printed BSM data, such as the IATA license plate number, to the passenger, similar to a commonly known baggage item or bag tag receipt.

[0441] Method 800A can include replacing the original printed bag tag with a new return flight bag tag for the return leg of travel.

[0442] In one or more embodiments, if the original printed bag tag is removed and replaced, a new return flight bag tag can be used to track the passenger's baggage item along other modes of travel and deliver the baggage item to a designated location. This new return flight bag tag may be used to track the location of the baggage item for delivery to a lodging facility, a home address, another designated address, or another moving vehicle on the return travel route.

[0443] 8B illustrates a flowchart of a method 800B for checking in a baggage item, a passenger, or a combination of baggage item and a passenger leaving an accommodation, according to one embodiment. The processor for checking in the baggage item or passenger and baggage item may be triggered based on scanning an IATA license plate number barcode on the originating hard copy bag tag, a printed document having at least some of the passenger information on the originating hard copy bag, or a created marker having an IATA license plate number associated with the originating hard copy bag tag. In one embodiment, the trigger may be a user interaction with a GUI. The trigger may require confirmation / verification of the passenger's identity, as described in FIG. 23.

[0444] The method 800B may determine whether a trigger has been received at block 801. If the determination at block 801 is yes, the method proceeds to block 802.

[0445] If the determination in block 801 is "no," the method may loop back to the beginning of block 801 to await a trigger, since the baggage item may not be checked until a window is opened by the airline carrier. In some cases, the passenger may be able to check in as soon as the window opens using an online portal by the airline carrier as known in the art.

[0446] According to some examples, method 800B includes checking in a baggage item or a passenger and baggage item from an accommodation for a return flight at block 802 described in connection with FIG. 8A.

[0447] According to some examples, the method 800B may include, at block 804, generating a bag tag identifier and an IATA license plate.

[0448] In one embodiment, system 100 may be a non-flying airline carrier configured to internally generate IATA license plates. In one embodiment, system 100 obtains IATA bag tag information for the return flight using a DCS associated with the designated return flight airline mobile carrier.

[0449] Method 800B may determine whether a trigger has been received at block 805. If the determination at block 805 is yes, the method may proceed to block 806. If the determination at block 805 is no, the method may loop back to the start of block 805. According to one example, block 806 may be triggered in response to a subsequent scan or capture of the OP-BTI and / or the creation of a digital BTI data record during the check-in window for the return flight. The trigger may require a keystroke on a computing device or a scan with a scanning device to trigger the printing of a stored new bag tag for the return or return travel leg.

[0450] According to some examples, method 800B may include printing an IATA bag tag with a license plate at block 806. When a passenger checks in for a flight or the like, one or more IATA B-type messages are generated that include the inbound and outbound flight numbers and dates, baggage details such as a 10-digit bag tag identifier, the passenger's name, and PNR information (i.e., PNR number), also known as a PNR locator.

[0451] The process for checking in the passenger and baggage for the return flight may include electronically communicating the boarding pass to the passenger to the passenger's mobile phone or computing device. The communication may include an email of the return flight boarding pass. The communication may include a text message of the return flight boarding pass.

[0452] In one or more embodiments, the communication may include information associated with the 10-digit bag tag identifier so that upon returning to the final leg of travel, the passenger can locate and track their baggage using, for example, the IATA 10-digit bag tag identifier.

[0453] According to one example, method 800B may be triggered in block 805 by at least one electronic capture device electronically capturing an origin hard copy bag tag identifier (OP-BTI) associated with or printed on an origin hard copy bag tag from an airline mobile carrier located on the passenger's baggage item to create a digital BTI data record within a check-in window for checking in the baggage item or passenger and baggage item.

[0454] Various remote check-in processes are known, for example, U.S. Patent No. 11,348,040, entitled "INTEGRATED END-TO-END TRAVEL INSTRUMENT (TI) DEVICE GENERATION SYSTEM AND INTEGRATED INSTRUMENT DEVICE," which is incorporated herein by reference, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0211418, entitled "BAGGAGE TAGGING SYSTEM AND METHOD HAVING DATA FROM MULTIPLE SOURCES," which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0455] Method 800A or 800B may include, during the ongoing remote check-in, obtaining, by at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return journey for the passenger's checked-in baggage items, and printing, by a printer, new bag tags for the return journey that match the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for each of the passenger's checked-in baggage items.

[0456] Method 800A or 800B may include replacing a printed bag tag from a first mode travel carrier with a new bag tag for the return travel leg.

[0457] Method 800A or 800B may include, during a remote check-in process, obtaining, by at least one processor, boarding pass information for the passenger's return travel leg, and communicating, by the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to the passenger's electronic communication device.

[0458] The boarding pass information may include barcoded boarding pass information. The boarding pass information may be in electronic ticket format.

[0459] Passenger manifest 9A illustrates a flowchart of a method 900A for merging a passenger manifest with accommodation information, according to one embodiment. According to some examples, the method 900A may include, at block 902A, searching and locating accommodation information from an accommodation database for each passenger in the manifest file. As a non-limiting example, the accommodation database may include the passenger's room, suite, or guest room number. The accommodation information may include the accommodation address, building number, floor number, floor number, and other designated location delivery identifiers for delivering the baggage items. The information may also be communicated to the passenger.

[0460] According to one or more examples, method 900A may include, at block 904A, updating a manifest file with lodging information. According to some examples, method 900A may include, at block 906A, selectively providing lodging information to the passenger from the updated manifest. According to some examples, method 900A may include, at block 908A, providing the updated manifest to the lodging facility. The updated manifest includes lodging information from the lodging facility and passenger information, such as the passenger's name, return flight information for at least a first mode of mobile carrier, and original bag tag ID. The manifest may include a baggage manifest, which includes baggage items to be delivered to the lodging facility. System 100 may prepare a common master baggage manifest for tracking, delivery, and collection of all baggage items under its management. In some cases, system 100 can assist baggage items in avoiding or expediting customs or border crossing security screening stations.

[0461] The data for check-in for the return leg may include at least the return leg flight time and the airline carrier (i.e., the designated return flight carrier). The method may include sorting, by at least one processor, a master manifest file with information related to the return leg flight times of the plurality of passengers, and performing, by the at least one processor, a remote check-in process for the return leg with the designated return flight carrier for each passenger based on the sorted master manifest file.

[0462] FIG. 9B illustrates a flowchart of a method 900B for merging passenger manifest and accommodation information, according to one embodiment.

[0463] Accommodations may include cruise ships, resorts, hotels, short-term rental homestays, long-term rental homestays, residences, and buildings.

[0464] According to some examples, method 900B may include, at block 902B, searching and locating accommodation information from an accommodation database for each passenger in the inventory file. As a non-limiting example, the accommodation database may include the passenger's room, suite, or guest room number.

[0465] Method 900B may be an inbound process for processing a passenger's luggage upon arrival of the passenger or passenger's luggage at the accommodation. In one or more embodiments, the passenger does not need to be present at or near the destination point for inbound registration of the luggage or at the accommodation. The manifest file 2716 may be from an airport. Other reservation information may be from manifests of a rail (train) reservation system 2718, a bus reservation system 2720, a ferry reservation system, and an accommodation reservation system 2722 of FIG. 27. This disclosure is not limited to these examples.

[0466] In one or more embodiments, travel reservations for multiple travel modes and / or accommodations can be merged to centralize passenger baggage delivery and check-in information independent of the passenger. In some cases, the centralized inventory may not be tethered to any travel mode or accommodation.

[0467] According to some examples, method 900B may include, at block 904B, updating a manifest file with the lodging information. According to some examples, method 900B may include, at block 906B, selectively providing the lodging information from the updated manifest to the passenger. According to some examples, method 900B may include, at block 908B, providing the updated manifest to the accommodation. The updated manifest includes the lodging information from the accommodation and passenger information, such as the passenger's name, return flight information for at least the first mode of mobile carrier, and original bag tag ID.

[0468] According to some examples, method 900B may include communicating the lodging information to type B message server 2710 (FIG. 27). According to some examples, method 900B may include, at block 912B, determining whether an update to the lodging information has been received. If the determination is yes, the method loops back to block 910B where the updated lodging information is communicated to type B message server 2710. If the determination in block 912B is no, the method on line 930B loops back to block 912B to wait for any updates.

[0469] FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of a method 1100 for creating a DPI data record, according to one embodiment.

[0470] Method 1100 may include, at block 1102, performing image processing on the image to optically recognize printed text of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence. However, the image may also be a printed document having at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag.

[0471] Image processing algorithms for optical character recognition (OCR) can include computer vision machine learning algorithms, deep learning algorithms, or traditional image processing for recognition of printed text.

[0472] The method 1100 may include, at block 1104, creating a DPI data record linked to an airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger information to access a return flight with the specified return mobile carrier.

[0473] Printed text to machine-encoded text 12A-12C show a flowchart of a method 1102 for performing image processing of image data associated with an originating hard-copy bag tag or a printed certificate, according to one embodiment. The method 1102 may include locating the originating hard-copy bag tag within at least one image. This may include, in some examples, using a background subtraction machine learning algorithm to separate pixels of the originating hard-copy bag tag from the background within the image. In other examples, an edge detection algorithm may be used to find the boundary of the originating hard-copy bag tag and separate pixels of the tag from the boundary. Additionally, the method 1102 may include locating the printed certificate within the at least one image.

[0474] The type of printed passenger information can indicate the location on the originating hardcopy bag tag to find the printed passenger information of interest. For example, the layout of FIG. 2A is a typical layout for some airlines. The layout can include an IATA barcode and license plate toward the bottom of the bag tag. The layout can include a destination airport field, which in this case is Miami International Airport with the representative code "MIA" printed on it. The destination airport field can also be above the IATA barcode. Additionally, the destination airport field can have the airline code "AA" printed on it to designate the airline carrier that is transferring the baggage item and passenger to the destination airport.

[0475] The layout may include an origin airport field, which in this example is Tampa International Airport with the representative code "TPA" printed on it. The origin airport field may be above the destination airport field on the origin hard copy bag tag. Additionally, the origin airport field may have the airline code "AA" printed on it to designate the airline travel carrier from which the baggage items and passengers are traveling.

[0476] The layout may include other spaces for printing the passenger's name on the originating hard copy bag tag. For example, the passenger's name may be printed below the IATA barcode or IATA license plate.

[0477] The layout may include other spaces for printing the PNR number on the origin hard copy bag tag. As a non-limiting example, the PNR number may be printed on the origin hard copy bag tag in a location above the origin airport field.

[0478] The layout may include other space for printing the airline name on the origin hardcopy bag tag. As a non-limiting example, the airline name may be printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag in a location above the origin airport field.

[0479] The layout may include other space for printing other information on the origin hard copy bag tag at the airline's discretion, including auxiliary information that may be used to identify the passenger to access passenger movement information stored on a memory device associated with the airline movement carrier.

[0480] However, as shown in Figure 2D, the layout of origin hard copy bag tags varies for different airlines, so it may be useful to determine whether the airline code on an origin hard copy bag tag or other printed document is alphanumeric.

[0481] Method 1102 can use an optical character recognition (OCR) process to convert the image of text into a machine-readable text format. The image of text may be searchable in its entirety to identify the location of a standardized code within the image of text to form a DPI data record. However, the origin hardcopy bag tag may be damaged. Thus, some or all of the text may not be optically readable using an OCR process. Depending on what passenger / airline information is not available, other printed documents may be used that may include portions of the origin hardcopy bag tag. As an example, bag tag marker 212 may be used to create a DPI data record by capturing an image of the bag tag marker. Method 1102 may be performed using the image of the bag tag marker. For example, an airline code is embedded in an IATA license plate number.

[0482] The method 1102 may include, at block 1206, optically recognizing the airline code or airline name text in at least one image of the origin hardcopy bag tag.

[0483] The method 1102 may include forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code image or airline name at block 1208. As used herein, the term "forming" is also interchangeable with "converting."

[0484] The method 1102 may include, at block 1210, matching the formed airline code with an airline code in a list of airline codes in the database 432. The database 432 includes both a memory device and correspondence information between airline codes and airline names.

[0485] The method 1102 may determine whether an airline code match is found at block 1212. If the determination at block 1212 is yes, the method 1102 may retrieve the airline mobile carrier layout at block 1216 and proceed to block 1218 of FIG. 12B. The BT layout may be searched for in the BT layout database 430. The database 430 may contain both a memory device and information regarding the layout of the bag tag and the presentation of specific passenger / airline information.

[0486] If the determination at block 1212 is "no," method 1102 may loop back to block 1206 of FIG. 12A for another attempt to find the airline code. The airline code may be used to find the layout of printed airline information and passenger information associated with the airline on the originating hardcopy bag tag. The loop back to block 1206 may include decision block 1214 for determining whether the maximum number of attempts has been made. As a non-limiting example, the first attempt to find the airline code may include looking for the two-character airline code in the originating airline field or the two-character airline code in an image of an IATA-compliant license plate. Based on the description herein, there may be other ways to obtain the printed airline code or airline name.

[0487] If the determination at block 1214 is no, then method 1102 may proceed to block 1206 of Figure 12A to continue locating valid airline codes or airline names. If the determination at block 1214 is yes, then method 1102 may loop to Figure 13 where another method of finding the PNR number is used.

[0488] The method 1102 may include, at block 1218, optically recognizing printed text of the PNR number in at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag.

[0489] The method 1102 may include, at block 1222, forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the PNR number.

[0490] At block 1224, method 1102 may determine whether a PNR number was found. A PNR number may be a unique sequence of six alphanumeric characters. In one or more embodiments, the PNR number may be preceded by the phrase "PNR," with or without a space or other characters, such as a hyphen or colon. However, this may be at the discretion of the airline carrier. If the determination at block 1224 is "yes," method 1102 may proceed to block 1228. If the determination at block 1224 is "no," method 1102 may loop back to block 1218, where the loopback is another attempt to find the PNR number. However, at block 1226, the attempts are limited to a maximum number of attempts. If the determination at block 1226 is "no," method 1102 may proceed to block 1218. If the determination at block 1226 is "yes," the method 1102 proceeds to FIG. 13, where the IATA license plate text can be used as a link index to the PNR information (i.e., PNR number) in the B-type message.

[0491] The method 1102 may include, at block 1228, optically recognizing printed text of the passenger's name in at least one image of the originating hardcopy bag tag.

[0492] The method 1102 may include, at block 1232, forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the passenger's name.

[0493] At block 1234, the method 1102 may determine whether the passenger's name was found. If the determination at block 1234 is yes, the method 1102 may proceed to block 1240 of FIG. 12C. If the determination at block 1234 is no, the method 1102 may loop back to block 1228, where the loopback is another attempt to find the passenger's name. However, at block 1236, the attempts are limited to a maximum number of attempts. If the determination at block 1236 is no, the method 1102 may proceed to block 1228. If the determination at block 1236 is yes, the method 1102 may loop to FIG. 13 or may use an image of the printed certificate, if available (shown here in the method).

[0494] In some cases, the passenger's name may be captured by using the IATA license plate to access a Type B message containing the passenger's name. However, if the originating hard copy bag tag is damaged, the passenger's name may also be extracted or obtained from a printed document.

[0495] The method 1102 may include, at block 1240, optically recognizing printed text of auxiliary information (AI) in a layout of the originating hardcopy bag tag in at least one image.

[0496] The method 1102 may include, at block 1242, forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the auxiliary information.

[0497] The method 1102 may determine whether an AI was found at block 1244. If the determination at block 1244 is "yes," the method 1102 may proceed to block 1248, where another determination is made to determine whether an AI type is expected to be printed on the bag tag or printed document. If the determination is "yes," the method 1102 loops back to block 1240 to look for additional sequences of text. If the determination at block 1244 is "no," the method 1102 forms a DPI data record at block 1250 and ends at block 1252.

[0498] The attempts to find an AI are limited to a maximum number of attempts at block 1246. If the determination at block 1246 is "no," the method 1102 may proceed to block 1240. If the determination at block 1246 is "yes," the method proceeds to block 1250, described above, and ends at block 1252.

[0499] 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method 1300 for forming a machine-encoded text sequence of an IATA license plate, according to one embodiment. If the PNR number cannot be obtained from an image of the printed origin hard-copy bag tag, the PNR number may be obtained from the B-type message. Method 1300 may include, at block 1302, optically recognizing printed text of the IATA license plate in at least one image of the origin hard-copy bag tag. Method 1300 may include, at block 1304, forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the IATA license plate. Method 1300 may also find the passenger's name.

[0500] FIG. 14A shows a conventional BSM 1400A for an airline carrier. The BSM is a B-type message. The B-type message may include multiple data fields containing coded characters. For example, the coded characters may include one of the following: American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) code, Baudot, and Padded Baudot. The codes and format of baggage information messages or B-type messages are described, for example, in IATA's "Recommended Practice 1745 Baggage Information Messages" (Passenger Services Resolution Manual, June 2010, 30th Edition, pages 1110-1205). The B-type message may be communicated over the Internet using Extensible Markup Language (XML) messages.

[0501] A B-type message may include a field or line 1402 containing a header. For example, the header may be labeled "BSM," representing the beginning heading of an airline's BSM. Field or line 1404 may include a line prefix ".V / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. As a non-limiting example, the line prefix ".V / " may indicate a version and supplemental data. For example, the supplemental data may include a transfer station in the airline's or airport's infrastructure. The .V / data field may indicate whether a B-type message, such as a BSM, is a terminal BSM. The .V / data field includes a number after the " / " that indicates a data dictionary version number. The next character may be a baggage source indicator, indicated by "L" for local, "T" for transfer, "X" for terminal, or "R" for remote. The baggage source indicator is followed by a three-digit airport code. In FIG. 14A, the BSM is a transfer BSM, the version number is 1, and the airport code is JFK.

[0502] When sorting on BSMs, BSMs from all air carriers are received and sorted. As a non-limiting example, the .V / field may be searched for a baggage source indicator of "T." Additionally, the system 100 may have many site locations. Thus, for a cruise ship departing Tampa, the system sorts destination BSMs that have "T" and "TPA" in the .V field of the baggage source indicator and a number corresponding to the airport code.

[0503] Other Type B messages may have or be modified to have similar in package source indicators.

[0504] Field or row 1406 may include the line prefix ".F / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the outbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "22MAY" may represent the arrival date. The code "IST" represents Istanbul Airport.

[0505] Field or row 1408 may include the row prefix ".I / ", followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the arrival flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "12MAY" may represent the departure date. The code "SLC" represents Salt Lake City Airport.

[0506] Field or row 1412 may include a line prefix ".N / " followed by a set of numbers representing the OP-BTI digital BTI data record. Field or row 1410 may include a line prefix ".P / " followed by a set of letters representing the passenger's name. The first name may be separated from the last name by the symbol " / ".

[0507] Field or line 1418 may include a line prefix ".L / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the passenger booking record number or PNR number. Field or line 1420 may include an end of message indicator, such as "ENDBSM."

[0508] Between lines 1402 and 1420, there may be other fields or lines, such as fields 1414 and 1416. Field or line 1414 has the prefix ".S / " and relates to adjustment data. Field or line 1416 has the prefix ".W / " and relates to data on the weight, number, dimensions, and type of baggage items. Since airline B-type messages are known in the art, further description of B-type messages will not be provided. Some of the fields / lines are required and others are optional depending on the B-type message.

[0509] However, system 100 may access other type B messages from a computer system associated with an airline carrier to, for example, determine if a baggage item is lost or missing. System 100 may access other type B messages stored in a computer system associated with an airline carrier to, for example, determine the status of baggage before a passenger begins their stay at an accommodation or at other times to track the status of baggage as it moves through an airport environment.

[0510] The exemplary conventional BSM 1400A is provided for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. Each airline may make modifications to its BSM. Simulated BSM Template

[0511] 14B shows a simulated BSM 1400B for a return flight that may be generated inside or outside a restricted check-in window, according to one embodiment. The simulated BSM 1400B can serve as a placeholder for generating a larger number of BSMs, for example, inside or outside an airline's restricted check-in window or other mode of travel. The simulated BSM 1400B is a template.

[0512] The B-type message may include a field or line 1422 containing a header. For example, the header may be labeled "SBSM," representing the beginning heading of an airline's BSM, or may include another B-type message header. For purposes of explanation and illustration, the simulated BSM in this example may have the same format layout as the BSM in FIG. 14A. Therefore, only the differences will be described. For simplicity, the same reference numbers may be used. However, minor differences may be used. For example, the simulated BSM header or another B-type message may start with an "S," such that the header may be "SBSM." In another example, the simulated BSM header or another B-type message may end with a symbol such as an "*." These examples are not meant to be limiting. The starting character "S" may include an alphanumeric combination of two letters or a two-digit code.

[0513] Field or line 1424 may include a line prefix ".V / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. As a non-limiting example, the line prefix ".V / " may indicate version and supplemental data. Because this is a simulated BSM outside of the regulated check-in window, the ".V / " field is marked "NULL."

[0514] Field or row 1426 may include the line prefix ".F / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the outbound flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "31MAY" may represent the arrival date. The code "SLC" represents Salt Lake City Airport.

[0515] The field or row 1428 may contain the row prefix ".I / ", followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the arrival flight number and date. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "30MAY" may represent the departure date. The code "IST" represents Istanbul Airport.

[0516] Field or row 1430 may include a line prefix ".N / " followed by the set of characters "NULL" because a bag tag identifier has not yet been assigned. Field or row 1436 may include a line prefix ".P / " followed by a set of characters representing the passenger's name. The first name may be separated from the last name by the symbol " / ".

[0517] In one or more embodiments, the simulated type B message generator 431 can assign a bag tag identifier that matches the 10-digit IATA bag tag number printed on the airline carrier's bag tag. In this case, the ".N / " prefix is ​​followed by the assigned bag tag identifier or the 10-digit IATA bag tag number. The number in the field following the ".N / " prefix can contain the number of checked-in baggage items.

[0518] The assignment of bag tag identifiers by server 148 or server 1310 external to the airline's mobile information system may vary by airline or country.

[0519] Fields or rows 1438 and 1440 may be used for remote check-in. For example, field row 1438 may include a ".D / " in the line prefix followed by a set of alphanumeric or alphabetic characters for bag check-in details. Each ".D / " code field varies based on the location data of the type of remote check-in. For example, field 1438 may include at least location data, date, and time, for example. Field or row 1440 may include a ".C / " prefix followed by characters representing a company or group name, for example.

[0520] Field or line 1442 may include a line prefix ".L / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters representing the passenger booking record number or PNR number. Field or line 1444 may include an end of message indicator, such as "ENDBSM."

[0521] Between rows 1422 and 1440 there may be other fields or rows, such as fields 1432 and 1434. Field 1432 has the prefix ".S / " and field 1434 has the prefix ".W / ", both of which are marked "NULL". Fields or rows marked "NULL" cannot be populated with return flight data because airline systems such as DCS do not allow baggage to be checked in until the restricted check-in window opens.

[0522] The simulated B-type message or simulated BSM may be used as a placeholder to pre-populate a BSM or other B-type message for checking in baggage that will be assigned an IATA license plate number.

[0523] In one or more embodiments, the third party provider or company checking in the luggage may be configured to assign a unique identifier that matches an IATA license plate number, including a barcode format for printing on an IATA bag tag.

[0524] 15 is a schematic diagram of a process 1500 for the generation of a baggage authentication indicia to avoid additional baggage screening or an indication that screening is complete, according to one embodiment. The process shown in FIG. 15 may, for example, produce MK 136.

[0525] 15, process 1500 may begin with scanning marker 212 (FIG. 2B) or origin hardcopy bag tag 200 (FIG. 2A). Marker 212 is shown to avoid overcrowding. Marker 212 may include passenger name 214, origin airport flight identifier 216, destination airport flight identifier 1506, 10-digit license plate 218 and adjacent barcoded license plate 220 and / or BSM recording indicia.

[0526] The barcode scanner 116 reads the barcode 220. The scanner 116 is communicatively coupled to the server 148 to receive information from the simulated BSM and the results of security screening, as described in FIGS. 26A-26B. In one or more embodiments, the MK 136 may be similar to the marker 212. However, in this instance, the MK 136 is updated with the same or similar BSM data from 212, the cruise inline mode of travel or accommodation is represented by a vessel mode indicia 1516, and an indication that it has passed screening under the cruise line and government security rubric is provided by a vessel approval indicia 1514. Additional details 1518 regarding the cruise ship destination of the baggage item 138 are listed from the cruise ship (accommodation) manifest, which includes the cruise line, cruise ship, departure date, cabin number, deck number, and reservation number. A print file of the MK 136 is sent to the printer 120, for example, for printing. MK136 is affixed to baggage item 138.

[0527] From the airport to the baggage item 138, it is in trusted custody and is accessible only by trusted custody handlers. In other words, the passenger or owner of the baggage 138 does not have access to the baggage 138 and therefore no opportunity to insert contraband or prohibited items beyond initial screening by the TSA.

[0528] If there is no origin hardcopy bag tag and no marker 212, for example, the baggage item must be processed independently. However, system 100 matches the passenger with the baggage item and a simulated BSM created from image data captured, for example, by a mobile communication device. The simulated BSM and / or security data can be printed by process 1500. MK 136 can include information from the cruise ship (accommodation) manifest, including the cruise line, cruise ship, departure date, room number, deck number, and reservation number.

[0529] Security Screening Integrated Assistant System FIG. 16 illustrates a Security Screening Integrated Assistant (SSIA) system 190 according to one embodiment. The SSIA system 190 is shown within a black box below line L1. The SSIA system 190 can be communicatively coupled to a first mobility mode system (FMTS) 10 and a first security screening machine system (FSSMS) 40, both of which are shown above line L1. As a non-limiting example, the FMTS 10 may include one or more computing systems 30, 35 or server systems having memory devices directly or indirectly associated with the FMTS 10. It should be understood from this disclosure that each airline carrier enterprise has many server systems and / or computing systems. The FMTS 10 may include, for example, multiple airline carriers 20 and 22 for a particular airline.

[0530] The term "SVTS" is used to refer to a Second Mobile Vehicle System (SVTS), which may be a cruise ship, a bus, a train, or a lodging facility. In one or more embodiments, a cruise ship is a lodging facility. In one or more embodiments, a train may be a lodging facility. The SVTS may be the next vehicle in a mobility system. The FMTS 10 is the first vehicle in a mobility system (FVTS) and is an airline mobility carrier departing from anywhere in the world.

[0531] To prevent overcrowding in the diagram, FMTS 10 may include multiple air carriers for multiple airlines, each of which may have its own respective computer system 30 and computer system 35. The term "air carrier" may be used interchangeably with airline and moving vehicle.

[0532] Computer system 30 may be, for example, a mobile information system that stores passenger itinerary data, flight information, and passenger check-ins. Computer system 35 may store B-type messages generated by a baggage handling system that routes checked-in baggage items through the airport infrastructure. Computer system 30 or 35 may provide check-in for baggage items. In one or more embodiments, a mobile carrier, such as an airline mobile carrier, may require passengers to check in and then print or generate boarding passes. After passengers check in, baggage items may be checked in.

[0533] Passenger baggage items are checked into an air carrier that is part of the FMTS 10. Checked-in baggage items are tagged with an origin hard copy bag tag 200, as shown in FIG. 2A. After tagging, the baggage items are sent through the baggage handling system's automated conveyor system to the FSSMS 40.

[0534] Although FSSMS 40 is shown separate from FMTS 10, both may be housed within or part of the airport infrastructure. FSSMS 40 may include one or more security screening imaging machines 45 and 50. FSSMS 40 may include one or more computing systems 55 or server systems having memory devices 113 for storing security screening images from imaging machine 45. FSSMS 40 may include one or more computing systems 65 or server systems having memory devices 113 for storing security screening images from imaging machine 50.

[0535] The government agency that manages airline security screening may be referred to as the TSA. Several vendors manufacture the CT scanners used by the TSA for baggage screening. Some prominent vendors include, for example:

[0536] SMITHS DETECTION: SMITHS DETECTION is a leading provider of advanced security solutions, including CT scanners. The company's HI-SCAN XCT series scanners, such as the HI-SCAN 6040 XCT and HI-SCAN 7555 XCT, are designed to screen checked and carry-on baggage at airports.

[0537] L3HARRIS Technologies: L3HARRIS Technologies is another major supplier of security equipment, including CT scanners for baggage screening. The company's CLEARSCAN brand CT scanner family is used by the TSA at various U.S. airports.

[0538] ANALOGIC Corporation: ANALOGIC Corporation develops advanced imaging technology, including CT scanners for airport security. Its CONNECT brand series of scanners, such as the CONNECT 70 and CONNECT 100, are designed to enhance airport security screening.

[0539] LEIDOS (formerly Lockheed Martin): LEIDOS is a global technology company that provides security solutions, including CT scanners for baggage screening. They developed the VACIS M6500 system, a high-performance CT scanner for baggage screening at airports.

[0540] CT images generated during baggage screening are typically saved in a multi-image format. This format allows for the exchange, storage, and transmission of images across different systems and devices. CT scanners capture a series of 2D cross-sectional images, which can then be reconstructed into a 3D representation of the scanned object. 3D visualization and analysis of CT images often involves dedicated software designed to process and render multi-image files. These software solutions can reconstruct the 2D slices into a 3D model, allowing security personnel to screen the scanned baggage in greater detail.

[0541] The DICOS (Digital Imaging and Communications in Security) standard is an image format standard developed by NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) in collaboration with DHS. The standard is intended to increase the interoperability and effectiveness of security screening systems such as those used in airports and other critical infrastructure facilities. DICOS is designed to meet the specific needs of security imaging, including the storage, transmission, and processing of security images. It addresses limitations of the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standard, which is primarily focused on medical imaging. The DICOS standard provides:

[0542] Interoperability: DICOS enables seamless communication between different security imaging systems and components from various manufacturers, enabling a more efficient and effective security screening process.

[0543] Scalability: The DICOS standard is designed to be easily extended and adapted to incorporate new technologies and methods as they emerge in the field of security imaging.

[0544] Flexibility: DICOS supports a wide range of security imaging modalities, including X-ray, CT, MRI, etc., making it suitable for a variety of security applications.

[0545] The size of a TSA file can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the resolution of the scanner, the number of slices captured, the level of compression applied, and the size of the luggage being scanned. CT scans generally produce many high-resolution images, which can result in significant file sizes. A single multi-image file for a CT scan can range from hundreds of kilobytes to several megabytes. When considering a scan of an entire luggage package, which may contain multiple files, the total size can easily reach tens or even hundreds of megabytes.

[0546] The initial screening process by the FSSMS 40 can be performed by large X-ray machines (i.e., security screening imaging machines 45 and 50). These security screening imaging machines 45 and 50 are designed to detect a variety of materials, including explosives and other contraband. Baggage is screened using a dual-energy X-ray system, which allows security personnel to distinguish between organic and inorganic materials based on their atomic number. This helps identify potentially dangerous materials. If the X-ray scan shows anything suspicious, the bag is diverted for further inspection. This typically involves a physical inspection by trained security personnel and may also involve the use of more advanced scanning technology, such as a CT (computer tomography) scanner, which can provide a more detailed 3D image of the bag's contents. In some cases, explosive trace detection (ETD) machines can also be used. These machines can detect traces of explosives on the outside of the bag or on items inside the bag. They work by swabbing the bag or item and then analyzing the swab for any explosive residue.

[0547] Baggage items that have explosives or certain dangerous materials detected within them will be prevented from boarding an air carrier.

[0548] The security screening imaging machines 45 and 50 can detect materials or chemicals that are not individually dangerous but may be dangerous in combination. When in the second mode of movement, the materials or chemicals may be intentionally or accidentally combined. In one or more embodiments, the SSIA system 190 can request the FSSMS 40 to provide a list of all detected chemicals and quantities associated with objects in the baggage item.

[0549] The objects permitted for checked-in baggage items stored in the cargo hold of an air carrier may differ from the objects permitted for baggage items aboard, for example, a cruise ship (i.e., Second Mode Transportation System (SMTS) 1680A). This may be in part because weapons in checked-in baggage items are inaccessible during a passenger's flight while the baggage items are in the cargo hold. However, on a cruise ship, baggage items are delivered to passenger cabins where passengers have direct access to weapons during travel, which may pose a threat to other passengers.

[0550] Depending on the next moving vehicle, the baggage item may be screened, for example, by ISSS 1670A, 1670B, 1670C, and 1670D. ​​Each ISSS 1670A, 1670B, 1670C, and 1670D may include an SS computer station 2672A and a security screening device 2672B, as described with respect to ISSS 2670 of Figure 26A. The SSIA system 190 may be configured to interface with ISSS 1670A, 1670B, 1670C, and 1670D, as described in more detail with respect to methods 2600A and 2600B of Figures 26A and 26B.

[0551] What travelers are permitted to carry in checked baggage during a flight may differ from what is permitted on a ship. For example, some weapons may be approved for travel in baggage items that are checked in and placed in the aircraft's cargo. However, aboard a cruise ship, the owner of the baggage item may have access to the weapon during the cruise, creating a dangerous risk. While the specific list of prohibited items may vary between cruise lines, some common items that are permitted on an aircraft but prohibited on a cruise line may include, for example, the following:

[0552] Alcohol: Many cruise lines have strict policies regarding personal alcohol on board. While airplanes allow limited amounts of alcohol to be carried in checked baggage, cruise lines often restrict or limit the amount that can be brought on board.

[0553] Power strips: While power strips, surge protectors, and extension cords are typically allowed in carry-on or checked luggage on airplanes, many cruise lines ban them due to potential fire hazards.

[0554] Clothes irons: Clothes irons are usually allowed in checked baggage on airplanes, but are often prohibited on cruise ships. Cruise ships usually offer laundry service or self-service laundry facilities with irons.

[0555] Pool inflatables: These items are allowed on airplanes but may not be allowed on cruise ships due to limited pool space and safety concerns.

[0556] Drones: While some airlines allow drones as carry-on or checked baggage, most cruise lines prohibit them for safety and privacy reasons.

[0557] Hoverboards and similar devices: These items are typically allowed on aircraft if they meet certain battery requirements. However, many cruise lines have banned them due to fire hazards and safety concerns.

[0558] Sporting Equipment: Some cruise lines may restrict or prohibit certain sporting equipment, such as baseball bats or golf clubs, that are allowed in checked baggage on airplanes.

[0559] Weapons: Some cruise lines may restrict guns, knives, large scissors, and pepper mace. Small grooming scissors may be permitted.

[0560] Similarly, certain items that are permitted on airplanes may be prohibited or restricted on trains (railroads), for example:

[0561] Oversized baggage: Airlines typically allow checked baggage with size and weight restrictions, but trains often have stricter size restrictions or limited storage space for large suitcases.

[0562] Bicycles: Many airlines allow bicycles as checked baggage, but not all trains allow bicycles or may require reservations and additional fees.

[0563] Sporting equipment: Some trains may restrict or prohibit certain sporting equipment, such as surfboards, skis, or golf clubs, that are allowed in checked baggage on airplanes.

[0564] Camping equipment: Camping equipment such as portable stoves, fuel canisters, and tents with stakes may be permitted in checked baggage on airlines, but may be restricted or prohibited on trains.

[0565] Musical Instruments: Airlines often allow musical instruments as carry-on or checked baggage, but some trains may have size or weight restrictions on these items.

[0566] Hazardous Materials: Items such as flammable liquids, compressed gases, or corrosive materials may be allowed in limited quantities on aircraft, but trains may have stricter regulations.

[0567] A bus may prohibit one or more of these or other objects and substances.

[0568] Hotels and resorts may prohibit one or more of the above or other objects and substances.

[0569] The examples described herein are for purposes of illustration and explanation and should not be limiting in any way. As should be understood from the description herein, it is not practical to describe each and every rule and regulation for every mode of transportation or travel throughout the world.

[0570] Rules and regulations can vary based on transit through different government agencies and different countries. Rules and regulations may limit or prohibit the amount of currency, agriculture, food, and other objects on a prohibited list for any mode of travel.

[0571] The baggage screening process on a cruise ship (i.e., SMTS 1680A) is similar to that at an airport, with some differences due to the unique nature of maritime travel. The SMTS 1680A may include one or more server or computer systems 1675A. When passengers arrive at the cruise terminal, their baggage items are checked in and tagged. These passengers arrive by lifting and hand-carrying their baggage items.

[0572] The ba...

Claims

1. 1. A method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's checked-in baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Booking Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for a return flight to a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

4. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

5. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: communicating the at least one image to a network interface coupled to the at least one processor by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device.

6. performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier for the return flight on the designated return airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence of the optically recognized printed text of the printed passenger information.

7. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

8. said performing image processing optically recognizing the airline code or the airline name text in the at least one image; 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

9. Before step c), d) autonomously generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for the return travel segment with the designated return airline travel carrier; e) repeating a)-b) and d) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations to autonomously form an inventory file.

10. During the check-in, the passenger is checked in; The method includes, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight; 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: communicating, by the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

11. merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, the accommodation data including a room or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

12. During said check-in, said baggage item is checked in; The method of claim 1 , further comprising printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight on the checked-in baggage item.

13. After step b) and before step c), scanning the IATA license plate number barcode on the origin hardcopy bag tag; 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: accessing the passenger return flight information stored in one of a baggage manifest or a passenger manifest for use in step c).

14. 1. A system comprising: at least one processor; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing at least one instruction; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to a) acquiring image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an originating hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the originating hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the originating hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's checked-in baggage, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) checking in the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof for a return flight with a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

16. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, and the passenger's name, or any combination thereof.

17. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

18. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to obtaining the image data by performing image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hard copy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 15. The system of claim 14, further configured to: create the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

19. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

20. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing the airline code or the airline name text in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

21. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to, prior to check-in of the baggage item or the passenger: d) autonomously creating a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, with a designated return travel carrier for the return travel leg; e) repeating a)-b) and d) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with the accommodations, autonomously forming an inventory file.

22. During the check-in, the passenger is checked in; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to checking the passenger into the designated return mobile carrier for the return flight; obtaining boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight; 22. The system of claim 21, further configured to: communicate the boarding pass information to the passenger's electronic communication device.

23. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; 22. The system of claim 21, further configured to: form a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, the accommodation data including a room or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

24. further comprising a printing device; c) during said check-in, said baggage item is checked in; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to 15. The system of claim 14, further configured to cause the printing device to print a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the check-in baggage item for the return flight.

25. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: scanning a barcode of the IATA license plate number on the origin hardcopy bag tag, wherein the printed document includes a generated marker having at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag or the IATA license plate number associated with the origin hardcopy bag tag; and c) accessing the passenger return flight information stored in one of a baggage manifest or a passenger manifest for use in c).

26. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's checked-in baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, or the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for a return flight with a designated return airline mobile carrier associated with the accessed passenger's return flight information.

27. 27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

28. 30. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 27, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, and the name of the passenger.

29. 27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related information or airline-related information included on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in at least one memory of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

30. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; and communicating the at least one image by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device to a network interface coupled to the at least one processor.

31. The method comprises: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return flight on the specified return airline mobile carrier.

32. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the names of the passengers.

33. said performing image processing optically recognizing the airline code or the airline name text in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

34. The method further comprises, before step c), d) autonomously generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the accessed passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, for the return travel segment with the designated return airline travel carrier; e) repeating a)-b) and d) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with the accommodation to autonomously form an inventory file.

35. During the check-in, the passenger is checked in; The method includes, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the passenger's return flight; 35. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, further comprising: communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

36. The method comprises: merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; 35. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, further comprising: forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, the accommodation data including a room number or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

37. During said check-in, said baggage item is checked in; 27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, wherein the method further comprises printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the check-in baggage item for the return flight.

38. The method further comprises the steps of: after step b) and before step c), scanning a barcode of the IATA license plate number on the origin hardcopy bag tag, wherein the printed document includes a generated marker having at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag or the IATA license plate number associated with the origin hardcopy bag tag; 38. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 37, further comprising: accessing the passenger return flight information stored in one of a baggage manifest or a passenger manifest for use in step c).

39. 1. A method for facilitating check-in of a passenger's baggage items, the method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to the baggage item of the passenger, the DPI data record including machine-encoded text of an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a B-type message including the passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using the machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier; c) retrieving, by at least one of said at least one processor, check-in information for a return flight of said passenger with a designated return mobile carrier using PNR data associated with said PNR number; d) during a check-in window, by the at least one processor, checking in at least one of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, to the designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight.

40. analyzing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code; 40. The method of claim 39, further comprising: identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, instructions for accessing the B-type message based on the airline code.

41. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time and the designated return mobile carrier.

42. obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor during the check-in, airline bag tag information for the return flight for the baggage item; 42. The method of claim 41, further comprising printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return flight that matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for the passenger's checked-in return baggage.

43. checking in the passenger for the return flight by at least one of the at least one processor during the check-in; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, boarding pass information for the return flight; 43. The method of claim 42, further comprising: communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

44. performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text; and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text for the return flight on the specified return mobile carrier.

45. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message.

46. 1. A system for facilitating check-in of passenger baggage items, the system comprising: at least one processor; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing at least one instruction; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to a) causing at least one of the at least one processor to acquire image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to the baggage item of the passenger, the DPI data record including machine-encoded text of an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; b) causing at least one of the at least one processor to access a B-type message containing the passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using the machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier; c) causing at least one of said at least one processor to retrieve check-in information for said passenger's return flight with a designated return mobile carrier using PNR data associated with said PNR number; d) causing at least one of the at least one processor to check in a return baggage item, a passenger, or a combination thereof, to the designated return mobile carrier during a check-in window based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight.

47. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to causing at least one of the at least one processor to analyze the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code; 47. The system of claim 46, further configured to: cause at least one of the at least one processor to identify instructions for accessing the B-type message based on the airline code.

48. 47. The system of claim 46, wherein the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time and the designated return mobile carrier.

49. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to causing at least one of the at least one processor to obtain airline bag tag information for the return flight for the baggage item during the check-in; 49. The system of claim 48, further configured to: cause a printer to print a new bag tag for the return flight that matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate of the passenger's checked-in return baggage.

50. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to, during the check-in, checking in the passenger with at least one of the at least one processor for the return flight; causing at least one of the at least one processor to obtain boarding pass information for the return flight; 50. The system of claim 49, further configured to: cause at least one of the at least one processor to communicate the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

51. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to causing at least one of the at least one processor to perform image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text; 47. The system of claim 46, further configured to: cause at least one of the at least one processor to create the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text for the return flight on the designated return mobile carrier.

52. 47. The system of claim 46, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message.

53. 1. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method for facilitating check-in of a passenger's baggage items, the method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to the baggage item of the passenger, the DPI data record including machine-encoded text of an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a B-type message including the passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using the machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier; c) retrieving, by at least one of said at least one processor, check-in information for a return flight of said passenger with a designated return mobile carrier using PNR data associated with said PNR number; d) during a check-in window, by the at least one processor, checking in at least one of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, to the designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the return flight.

54. The method comprises: analyzing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the IATA license plate number to locate an airline code; 54. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 53, further comprising: identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, instructions for accessing the B-type message based on the airline code.

55. 54. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 53, wherein the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time and the designated return mobile carrier.

56. The method comprises: obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor during the check-in, airline bag tag information for the return flight for the baggage item; 56. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 55, further comprising: printing, by a printer, a new bag tag for the return flight that matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate for the passenger's checked-in return baggage.

57. The method comprises: checking in the passenger for the return flight by at least one of the at least one processor during the check-in; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, boarding pass information for the return flight; 57. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 56, further comprising: communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the passenger.

58. The acquiring of the image data includes: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into searchable machine-encoded text; and creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text related to the return flight on the designated return mobile carrier.

59. 54. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 53, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message.

60. 1. A method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) autonomously generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in with a designated return travel carrier for the return travel leg of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof; d) repeating a)-c) for a plurality of passengers to begin stays associated with the accommodations and autonomously forming an inventory file.

61. 61. The method of claim 60, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

62. 62. The method of claim 61, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

63. 61. The method of claim 60, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

64. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; 61. The method of claim 60, comprising: communicating the at least one image by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

65. performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 61. The method of claim 60, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return travel segment by the specified return mobile carrier.

66. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

67. said performing image processing optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; 66. The method of claim 65, further comprising: forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

68. merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data; 61. The method of claim 60, wherein the accommodation data includes a room or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

69. 69. The method of claim 68, further comprising checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item with a return flight carrier for a return flight.

70. During said check-in, said baggage item is checked in; 70. The method of claim 69, further comprising printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight for the baggage item.

71. and electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, from the airline mobile carrier an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record; 71. The method of claim 70, wherein the printing of the return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by the capturing of the OH-BTI or the creation of the digital BTI data record.

72. 1. A system comprising: at least one processor; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor and storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: a) acquiring image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) autonomously creating a passenger manifest record from the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof, with a designated return travel carrier for the return travel leg; d) repeating a)-c) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with the accommodations, and autonomously forming an inventory file.

73. 73. The system of claim 72, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

74. 74. The system of claim 73, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

75. 73. The system of claim 72, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

76. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to performing image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 73. The system of claim 72, further configured to: create the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

77. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; 75. The system of claim 74, further configured to: and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

78. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; 75. The system of claim 74, further configured to: form a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

79. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; 73. The system of claim 72, further configured to: form a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data, the accommodation data including a room or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

80. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to 73. The system of claim 72, further configured to check in the baggage item for the return flight to a return flight carrier before printing a return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

81. further comprising a printing device; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to 81. The system of claim 80, further configured to cause the printing device to print the return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the baggage item for the return flight based on the baggage item being checked in.

82. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to further configured to electronically acquire, by at least one electronic acquisition device, from the airline mobile carrier an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record; 82. The system of claim 81, wherein the printing of the return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by obtaining the OH-BTI or creating the digital BTI data record.

83. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document having at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) autonomously generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a passenger manifest record based on the DPI data record and the passenger return flight information, the passenger manifest record including data for check-in with a designated return travel carrier for the return travel leg of the baggage item, the passenger, or a combination thereof; d) repeating a) through c) for multiple passengers to begin stays associated with accommodations and autonomously forming an inventory file.

84. 84. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 83, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

85. 85. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 84, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

86. 84. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 83, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related information or airline-related information included on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

87. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; and communicating the at least one image by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

88. The method comprises: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 84. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 83, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return travel segment by the designated return mobile carrier.

89. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

90. said performing image processing optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

91. The method comprises: merging accommodation data from the accommodation with the inventory file; and forming a master inventory file using the inventory file and the accommodation data; 84. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 83, wherein the accommodation data includes a room or cabin number for each passenger of the plurality of passengers.

92. 92. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 91, wherein the method further includes checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item with a return flight carrier for a return flight.

93. During said check-in, said baggage item is checked in; 93. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 92, wherein the method further comprises printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight for the baggage item.

94. The method comprises: and electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, from the airline mobile carrier an origin hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with or printed on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a digital bag tag identifier (BTI) data record; 94. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 93, wherein the printing of the return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight is triggered by the acquisition of the OH-BTI or the creation of the digital BTI data record.

95. 1. A method comprising: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, wherein the origin hardcopy bag tag is issued to a passenger's baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; c) printing, by a printing device, a return leg travel IATA bag tag for the return flight associated with said passenger return flight information.

96. 96. The method of claim 95, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

97. 97. The method of claim 96, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

98. 96. The method of claim 95, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

99. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; 96. The method of claim 95, comprising: communicating the at least one image by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor.

100. performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 96. The method of claim 95, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return flight on a designated return mobile carrier.

101. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

102. said performing image processing optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; 101. The method of claim 100, further comprising: forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

103. 96. The method of claim 95, wherein said accessing said passenger return flight information includes accessing a B-type message using the IATA license plate number of the DPI data record, said B-type message including said PNR number.

104. 104. The method of claim 103, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message.

105. 96. The method of claim 95, further comprising checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item for the return flight to a return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

106. 1. A system comprising: at least one processor; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing at least one instruction; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to acquiring image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with an airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to an airline mobile carrier, the origin hardcopy bag tag being issued to a passenger's baggage item, the DPI data record including an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; accessing passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; causing a printing device to print a return leg travel IATA bag tag for a return flight associated with the passenger return flight information.

107. 107. The system of claim 106, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

108. 108. The system of claim 107, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

109. 107. The system of claim 106, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

110. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to performing image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 107. The system of claim 106, further configured to: create the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the machine-encoded text sequence.

111. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; 111. The system of claim 110, further configured to: and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

112. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; 111. The system of claim 110, further configured to: form a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

113. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to 107. The system of claim 106, further configured to access the passenger return flight information by accessing a B-type message using the IATA license plate number of the DPI data record, the B-type message including the PNR number.

114. 114. The system of claim 113, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message (BSM).

115. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to 107. The system of claim 106, further configured to check in the baggage item for the return flight to a return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

116. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: a) acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, image data representing at least one image of printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on an origin hardcopy bag tag or a printed document including at least a portion of the printed passenger information on the origin hardcopy bag tag to create a Digital Passenger Information (DPI) data record linked to the airline mobile carrier, wherein the origin hardcopy bag tag is issued to a passenger's baggage item, and the DPI data record includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, an airline code, an airline name, the passenger's name, or any combination thereof; b) accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, passenger return flight information from a computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier based on the DPI data record; and c) printing, by a printing device, a return leg transfer IATA bag tag for the return flight associated with the passenger return flight information.

117. 117. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 116, wherein the DPI data record includes the PNR number.

118. 118. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 117, wherein the DPI data record further includes an airline code, an airline name, the name of the passenger, or any combination thereof.

119. 117. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 116, wherein the DPI data record further includes passenger-related or airline-related information contained on the origin hardcopy bag tag that links to the passenger return flight information stored in a memory system of the computer system associated with the airline mobile carrier.

120. The acquiring of the image data includes: capturing an image of the at least one of the origin hard copy bag tag or the printed certificate with an imaging device; and communicating the at least one image to a network interface coupled to at least one of the at least one processor by a communication device in electronic communication with the imaging device.

121. The method comprises: performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, image processing on the at least one image to optically recognize printed text of the printed passenger information associated with the airline mobile carrier on the origin hardcopy bag tag and convert the printed text into a searchable machine-encoded text sequence; 117. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 116, further comprising: creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the DPI data record linked to the airline mobile carrier from the searchable machine-encoded text sequence for the return flight by a designated return mobile carrier.

122. said performing image processing optically recognizing the text of the PNR number in the at least one image; forming a machine-encoded text sequence of said PNR number; optically recognizing text of the passenger's name in the at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the name of the passenger.

123. said performing image processing optically recognizing an airline code or airline name text in said at least one image; and forming a machine-encoded text sequence of the airline code or the airline name.

124. 117. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 116, wherein the accessing the passenger return flight information includes accessing a B-type message using the IATA license plate number of the DPI data record, the B-type message including the PNR number.

125. 125. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 124, wherein the B-type message comprises a package source message.

126. 117. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 116, further comprising checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item for the return flight to a return flight carrier before printing the return leg transfer IATA bag tag.

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