Air travel is growing by 8% annually, placing a significant strain on current baggage handling systems that haven't changed much in 30 years. The Cognex ABH-ID solution uses proven, industry-recognized technology that reads traditionally difficult-to-decode codes and offers high read rates, even at critical crossings such as transfer lines, where tags are often damaged during aircraft loading and unloading.
“Until now, it has been difficult to read transfer tags due to the damage caused by all the baggage handling. We have designed an identification and tracking system that delivers the performance benefits of image-based readers at a price competitive with laser-based systems,” says Jay Bouton, Cognex’s new airport baggage handling business development manager. “Through field demonstrations on an international transfer line, Cognex was able to increase read rates by up to 15% over current laser readers.”.
This new solution from Cognex is crucial given the new International Air Transport Association Resolution 753, which came into effect in 2018. This resolution mandates that all member airlines must demonstrate baggage handling at three points along the journey: loading, transfer, and arrival. Each time baggage is handled, the quality and readability of the tag can be affected by stains, scratches, or weather exposure. The ABH-ID solution offers a high capacity for quickly and accurately reading damaged tags. Fewer "read errors" mean less baggage missing from flights, increasing the efficiency of the baggage handling system, reducing manual coding operations, and improving customer satisfaction.
The Cognex ABH-ID solution is integrated into the industry-leading DataMan® fixed barcode readers. These image-based readers feature a mature design that requires virtually no maintenance, unlike laser scanners with moving parts that can wear out. The solution also incorporates patent-pending Xpand™ technology, which provides the flexibility to read codes in space-constrained environments. Xpand technology offers significantly improved image quality and a wider field of view, simplifying installation and reducing overall system costs.
Cognex's airport baggage identification solution is now available. Cognex engineers are available to assist airport managers with on-site demonstrations and free trial installations.
