Parcel Path Error Detection From Load and Configuration Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geolocation technologies in sorting facilities suffer from inaccurate scans, missing scans, and inconsistent naming conventions, leading to inaccurate tracking of assets and the inability to determine analytical metrics for parcel position errors.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that compare load data with configuration data to determine parcel position errors by analyzing the parcel path and comparing it to a threshold, using environmental sensors to read tags on parcels and automatically detect errors such as mis-sorting or falling off conveyers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If geolocation technologies use scan-based tracking, then asset presence can be detected, but scan accuracy and completeness deteriorate leading to inaccurate tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The system compares actual parcel positions (from scan data) with expected parcel positions (from configuration data) to identify discrepancies. This feedback mechanism detects inaccurate or missing scans by analyzing position errors beyond a threshold, thereby improving tracking reliability without requiring perfect scan accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configuration data as an intermediary reference that mediates between scan data and tracking accuracy. By comparing actual positions against expected positions from configuration data, the system can identify and correct tracking errors even when individual scans are inaccurate or missing
2Reliability
If manual processes are used to verify parcel positions, then tracking accuracy can be maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to labor-intensive operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically comparing scan data with configuration data to detect position errors. This automated error detection eliminates the need for manual verification processes while maintaining tracking accuracy, thereby significantly improving processing efficiency and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual verification processes with an automated computational system that uses data comparison algorithms. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with automated information processing maintains tracking accuracy while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating labor-intensive verification
3Ease of manufacture
If inconsistent naming conventions are used in scan data, then data collection becomes simpler, but data analysis capability deteriorates preventing analytical metrics determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses configuration data as an intermediary that provides standardized position references. By comparing actual scan positions against expected positions in configuration data, the system can analyze parcel movements and determine analytical metrics even when scan data uses inconsistent naming conventions, thus preserving information analysis capability
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for determining a parcel position error based on a comparison of load data and configuration data are provided. Embodiments describe a number of methods of determining the parcel position error such as by determining a parcel path from the load data.