Evolving OCR scanning

Testing the new technology is Intermec, now part of Honeywell Scanning and Mobility, with its CK71 mobile computer. Designed with an extended range EX25 scan engine, the CK71 mobile reader means container numbers can be recorded via scanning from 15ft to 30 ft away.

Joe McClure, spokesperson, Honeywell Scanning and Mobility, told Port Strategy: “This technology can be used for a range of applications in ports and terminals so I want to make people aware of its capabilities.”

While static portals play their part in recording containers, a mobile application might be ‘walkers’ that are usually sent out each evening after a port closes to manually record each container number.

“The device decodes the jpeg taken by the reader and instantly processes it. The only problem that could occur is shadows on the container numbers, but this isn’t usually a problem in open ports and terminals,” added Mr McClure.

This new image solution could save ‘walkers’ considerable time and man hours as well as improve container number recording accuracy.

Intermec’s idea for mobile readers came about around two years ago, but it’s only in the last year that the technology has evolved and become more mainstream.

Mr McClure told PS the solution has received interest from numerous ports, terminals and TOS integrators and the company is looking to introduce the technology to more companies throughout the year.