Imaging technology, tri-mode wireless gain ground in parcel delivery

FedEx Express has embraced imaging technology as well in its new mobile computers. The GPRS-Dispatch system combines software developed by FedEx's GSP Technologies group and Intermec hand-held computers with integrated GPRS wide-area radios, and will be deployed first to couriers in China.

FedEx customized Intermec's 760 computer for the project. The device combines wireless LAN, GPRS and Bluetooth communications technologies, along with bar code scanning and 2-D imaging.

"We've always known that information about a package is as important as the delivery of the package itself," said David Cunningham Jr., president, Asia Pacific of FedEx. "With the real-time information provided by the new system, we expect to reduce pickup response time from 1.5 hours to 1 hour. In addition, the capabilities of the Intermec mobile computer allow FedEx to eliminate the use of car radio transmitters, pagers and cell phones to transmit information to and from couriers. The significant increase in customer satisfaction is as important as the cost efficiencies of this system. With real-time information, we're able to 'push' the work out to our couriers and proactively dispatch them as needed."

The FedEx Ground division is also receiving new mobile devices, which also feature imaging technology, according to a report from Raymond James & Associates. Over the years, FedEx has used a number of mobile devices in its different divisions and across geographies from Symbol, Intermec, HHP and Motorola.

UPS is deploying its new DIAD IV mobile computers and wearable bar code scanners to employees in Europe.

The company is installing finger-worn "ring" bar code scanners equipped with Bluetooth connectivity from Symbol Technologies Inc. at its sorting centers and hubs in Europe. UPS has used the finger scanners in the U.S. for several years, but has now eliminated the connecting cable using Bluetooth technology. The company expects a 30% reduction in equipment and repair costs, and a 35% reduction in downtime and spare parts.

As part of the global deployment, UPS will install as many as 12,000 Wi-Fi access points in more than 2,000 facilities. The resulting Wi-Fi network is expected to be one of the largest in the world.

The DIAD IV (Delivery Information Acquisition Device), currently in field trials in the U.S., also combines Bluetooth with wireless LAN and GPRS/CDMA technology. In addition, the device includes GPS capabilities and a color screen. Symbol developed the DIAD IV with UPS and Motorola.