Parcel dispatch manager system and method
A system and method are set out for automating the sorting and loading of parcels into a delivery vehicle. While being conveyed from a customer, parcels to be delivered are scanned and information obtained therefrom. The information may be the parcel either or both the identification code and delivery address. The obtaining may be performed by a bar code reader, hand held or overhead, as well as a videocoding device. The parcel information is matched to a sort code, a unique code for a unique delivery address. A list of matched identification and sort codes and delivery addresses and sort codes is then saved for later search, sort, and retrieval. The parcels are then loaded in sequence into mobile racks, which when full, is loaded onto the delivery vehicle. A sequence list of the order in which the parcels were scanned is also saved for later search, sort, and retrieval. An end user enters a select list of addresses in search of possible hits from the saved lists. A hit list is generated and sorted by the order of addresses in the search list. Alternative sort options are also available.
1 . A system for automating parcel sorting, comprising:
a scanner for decoding a plurality of parcels identifiers in a first sequence;
computer means comprising:
a first interface for receiving decoded identifiers;
matching means for matching decoded identifiers with sort codes;
compiling means for generating a first list of said matching;
a second interface for receiving a second list comprising said first sequence;
merging means for merging said first list and said second list;
a second interface for receiving a third list, said third list comprising a plurality of identifiers; and
comparing means for comparing said third list and said second list and generating a fourth list of matches; and
computer input means in communication with said second interface, said computer input means generating said third list.
2 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said identifiers comprise identification codes.
3 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said identifiers comprise parcel delivery addresses.
4 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said computer input means is associated with a second computer remote from said computer means, and said second computer and computer means communicate in a client server arrangement.
5 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said scanner is an overhead bar code scanner.
6 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said scanner is a hand held bar code scanner.
7 . The system according to claim 1 , wherein said scanner is a videocoding device.