Lockheed Martin delivers last automated package processing system to the US Postal service
Lockheed Martin has completed the deployment of 74 Automated Package Processing Systems (APPS) to the U.S. Postal Service under a more than USD300 million contract awarded in 2002.
APPS provides the Postal Service with a fully integrated, end-to-end system capable of automatically sorting high volumes of First-Class packaged mail, Priority Mail envelopes and parcels, and bundled mail, such as magazines or catalogs, with greater efficiency and higher accuracy. The system is capable of processing more than 9,500 packages an hour while automatically reading machine printed or handwritten addresses.
“Our system offers a modular and scalable solution, and is customizable for each site’s needs, which maximizes the return on investment for the program,” said Brian Tanton, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Distribution Technologies.
Lockheed Martin’s APPS increases productivity and provides sorting accuracy by combining state-of-the-art material handling capabilities with advanced optical character recognition (OCR), bar code reading (BCR) and video coding technologies. The system automatically processes bulk loads into a single stream of mail pieces; gathers detailed information specific to each package; acquires the correct delivery address through advanced OCR and BCR technologies; inducts a package individually onto a next-generation cross-belt sorter; and then accurately delivers the package to an assigned discharge bin so it can be dispatched to its destination.
Lockheed Martin Distribution Technologies designs, produces and integrates mail automation, material handling, recognition and information processing systems for postal services, package delivery operations, corporate mail centers, and distribution, fulfillment and manufacturing centers worldwide.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2005 sales of USD37.2 billion.
