Amazon Technologies, Inc.

Daniel Muething

Anand Doshi

Karl Eric Schrader

Mercia Elizabeth Howard

Keith C Tate

John Kevin Robinson

Eric Edens

Richa Rastogi

Andrea Frank

Jie Zheng

Mahmoud Abugharbieh

Embodiments herein describe a system that includes a scanner that captures images of a package. The scanner processes the image to identify a destination for the package. For example, the scanner may transmit bar code data identified in the image to an inventory tracking system which issues commands to an item-sortation machine for routing the package to its destination. The images of the package captured by the scanner may include private information that is not needed or used to determine the destination of the package. To protect private information in the package, the scanner assigns an obfuscated ID to the package which the scanner, inventory tracking system, and item-sortation machine can use to pass messages corresponding to the package. After processing the image to identify the destination (e.g., data encoded in a bar code), the scanner can erase the image.

Extensible machine workflow and event reporting protocol

Disclosed are various embodiments for systems and methods for calibrating a label applicator for improved accuracy and/or precision on moving objects. In one example, a system may be configured to receive a height of a package on a conveyor path prior to the package reaching a label applicator. The system can be configured to determine a predicted tamp time for the package based on the height. The predicted tamp time can represent an estimated period of time for a tamp head to apply a label on the package. The system also can instruct a controller operating a label applicator to activate the tamp head for the package based on the predicted tamp time. The system can receive an actual tamp time from the controller after the label has been applied to the package and update the modeling coefficient based on a tamp time error.

System and method for placing labels on moving objects

Systems and methods for generating labels are described. A label having particular format and content can be affixed to a parcel depending upon its. Barcodes can be positioned adjacent to one or more of the borders of the label. If, during a shipping workflow, one or more of the barcodes cannot be detected, it can be assumed that the label is damaged or obstructed.

Automated detection of missing, obstructed, or damaged labels

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Seattle, WA, United States of America

Daniel Muething