Automated Package Processing System (APPS)
Scott Bombaugh, Mgr.
Material Handling USPS Engineering

Mr. Bombaugh described the APPS,* a modular system that can be configured in a number of different ways – closed or open loop, single and dual induction, and automated singulation.  The single induction volume is 5,500 pieces per hour, double is 9,500 per hour.  The equipment can handle a wide variety of shapes, although there are challenges related to frictional characteristics of packages and bundles, and the mechanical singulation process sometimes causes bundle breakage.  There is also a challenge with image – optical interpretation of the address label.  The equipment must read the label through the materials used to hold the bundle together (shrinkwrap and banding) and must be able to read the additional information that mailers add, such as endorsements.  The equipment is able to read various sides of a package in line, and handle sizes from 3” x 3.5” for those packages letter thin up to 15” x 18” x 25” and weights up to 25 pounds.

Phase I deployment is expected to extend through August 2006, with 74 machines at 64 sites (55 are currently in operation).  The reader is optical character recognition and the current successful read rate is 80%.  The objective is to get a clear view of the label and other data – the kind of view that the human can see and interpret.  If that fails, the mail piece is sent to a video code environment and a human tries to interpret the address.  Failing that the piece is rejected.  Therefore, mailers need to make sure that the polywrap is clear, that seams do not obstruct the address and that banding does not interfere with the optical scan.  In simple terms, if a human eye can read the entire address, so can the APPS.  To that end, a DMM change becomes effective on April 30 that reads: “address must be visible and readable to the naked eye”.

Mr. Bombaugh said that the next challenge is bundle integrity.  The equipment is designed to accept a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but the singulation process that sorts all the various sizes involves the mixed mail moving through a series of separations, some of which may cause bundles to tumble.  If the bundle is not secure, it may come apart in that process. 

Mr. McCrery mentioned the ongoing eMIR program (Electronic Mail Improvement Report), noting that since the program was begun there have been improvements – decreases in strapping and poor polywrap mishaps, and there have been reports from the field that the situation is improving.

He announced a new approach to evaluating bundle integrity, a joint effort with major printers and the Postal Service to design and develop a measurement for bundle integrity.  The objective is to identify the best methods to create a secure bundle.  Finally, Mr. Bombaugh announced a study to identify the problems related to the APPS equipment design and mainly the singulation process, because of the tumbling and consequent bundle breakage.  He was confident that the equipment could be adapted to handle the process more effectively.

*link added by PostalReporter.com

Also see: USPS Discuss Network Realignment, APPS at MTAC Meeting