A brief analysis of related solutions for applying RFID technology in email processing

RFID technology offers advantages such as contactless, non-line-of-sight identification, writable information, longer read/write distances, large capacity (compared to barcodes), and multiple identifications, and has been widely applied in logistics and supply chain management, production management, and control. In the logistics industry, courier giants UPS and DHL have already begun testing and implementing RFID systems, and the International Postal Union has also tested the use of RFID technology for international mail to improve the efficiency and quality of mail delivery.

This article explores the application of this technology in mail processing, including the application of parcels, brush brushes, express packages, and mail bags in various processing stages such as postal branches, mail processing centers, and mail transfer stations.

Application system architecture

This application system mainly involves RFID data information acquisition systems and RFID data processing systems. The system adopts a client/server architecture, mainly considering the need for strong real-time response in RFID systems, which can well meet this requirement. Install database software on the server to store all data: install applications on the PC, which run on the PC and operate the database via a local area network.

System frequency band and label selection

The frequency at which RF systems are applied is the primary factor affecting system performance. It directly affects factors such as the system's recognition distance, signal attenuation, and read/write speed.

LF and HF systems are mainly used in situations where close distances require high penetration of objects, such as animal identification or access control systems.

UHF and μWF systems operate over long distances, adapt well to high-speed object movement, handle large data volumes, and have fast data read/write speeds, with typical distances of 1~15m. They are widely used in supply chain management, transportation and logistics management, luggage tracking, and other fields. Among them, the 915MHz system typically uses passive electronic tags, which are widely used in logistics systems and have formed ISO series standards, making the technology relatively mature. Microwave (μWF) systems consume a lot of power and generally require active electronic tags.

From the production requirements of general mail general parcel mail, the recognition distance is generally required to reach a maximum of 3 meters (during loading and unloading), so LF and HF systems are not recommended. If microwave is used, active electronic tags are required, and their recognition distance is essential to meet the production requirements of general postal services. However, the recognition distance of active electronic tags gradually shortens as the battery drains and the label is relatively expensive, making it difficult to use in the general postal system. The UHF band RFID system, with its recognition distance and other technical features, is perfectly suited to the identification requirements of general postal production and is technically feasible.

In summary, the RFID system frequency band for mail or mailbags discussed in this article uses passive tags in the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band.

Technical requirements for readers and writers

Depending on the application scenario, readers can be divided into fixed-mount readers and dedicated bag tag writers. Readers should be scalable, adaptable, and capable of backward upgrades and compatibility.

Fixed readers are generally used to read RF pocket tags on moving objects. In the embodiments introduced in this paper, it is used for platform handover, mailbag opening, bulk sorting, and general contractor sorting stages. The data collected by the fixed reader is sent to the host computer, filtered, and deduplicated, then sent to the RFID data processing system.

The dedicated bag tag writing device is mainly used for parcels, hanging brushes, and fast shipping bag sealing processes.

The dedicated bag tag writer mainly consists of a small antenna, RF read/write module, barcode reading module, embedded system module, and related power supply components. When sending out mailbags, the paper barcode bag tag and RF bag tag are manually placed in the reading area. The bag tag writer uses the barcode reading module to collect the 30-bit barcode information of the paper bag tag and complete the writing of the RFID bag tag information, while uploading the information in real time to the RFID service information system.