The CK-TP2A employs a multi-faceted engineering approach to maximize read rates, specifically designed for challenging multi-tag carton environments.

• 1. Optimized Multi-Antenna Array and RF Field Control:The tunnel is equipped with four high-gain (10dBi) antennas strategically positioned to create overlapping RF fields. This ensures that tags are illuminated from multiple angles as the carton passes through, eliminating blind spots caused by tag orientation or shielding from other items or the packaging itself. The system sequentially activates these antennas to manage RF coverage comprehensively.
• 2. Advanced Anti-Collision Algorithms and Dense Reader Mode:The UHF RFID module utilizes sophisticated anti-collision protocols (based on ISO 18000-6C) to handle the simultaneous response of dozens of tags. It operates in a dedicated “Dense Reader Mode” which minimizes interference between the reader’s transmission and the tags’ responses, allowing it to clearly distinguish individual tag signals even when they are packed closely together within a carton.
• 3. Controlled Conveyor Speed and EM Shielding:The three-segment conveyor allows for a controlled, consistent movement of cartons through the tunnel. The electrically shielded roller doors at the entrance and exit contain the RF energy within the tunnel. This prevents the accidental reading of tags from cartons still on the approaching conveyor or already exited, ensuring that each scan cycle is exclusively focused on the carton currently inside the tunnel, which is critical for accurate data association.

The system is designed for automated exception handling, ensuring faulty cartons are efficiently managed without disrupting the entire workflow.

• 1. Real-Time Software Alerts and Automated Diversion:The moment a discrepancy is detected (e.g., the scanned RFID count doesn’t match the expected quantity, or the weight is outside the tolerated range), the control software immediately triggers an alert. This is displayed prominently on the 10.1-inch touchscreen and activates the multi-color beacon light (e.g., flashing amber/red). Simultaneously, the software sends a signal to the sorting mechanism on the conveyor.
• 2. Activation of the Reject Line for Physical Separation:The conveyor system includes an automated diverter, such as a push-arm or a sliding shoe sorter. When the non-compliant carton reaches the sorting point, the diverter activates, gently pushing the carton onto a dedicated “reject” or “exception” line. This physically separates it from the verified goods, preventing it from proceeding to the next stage, such as loading onto a truck.
• 3. Detailed Logging for Root Cause Analysis:Every exception is logged in the system’s database with a timestamp, carton ID (if available), and the specific reason for the failure (e.g., “Weight Mismatch: Expected 15.2kg, Actual 14.8kg”). This data is invaluable for operational managers to identify recurring issues, such as a particular packing station consistently making errors, enabling targeted process improvements.

Integration is facilitated through a flexible, multi-layered approach, designed to suit various IT infrastructures and security requirements.

• 1. Comprehensive SDK/API for Deep Integration:Cykeo provides a full Software Development Kit (SDK) with robust APIs. This allows your IT team or solution partner to build a direct, real-time bridge between the tunnel reader’s software and your WMS (e.g., SAP EWM, Oracle WMS, Manhattan Associates). The tunnel can push verification data (carton ID, list of scanned RFID tags, measured weight, status Pass/Fail) via standard protocols like REST API or SOAP immediately after each carton is processed.
• 2. Configurable Data Export and File-Based Integration:For environments where direct database or API connections are restricted, the system can be configured to generate and export structured data files (e.g., CSV, XML) at regular intervals. These files, containing all transaction data from a specific period, can be automatically placed on a secure network share where your WMS can pick them up and import the data, enabling near-real-time synchronization.
• 3. PLC Communication for Conveyor Control System Integration:For advanced automation, the CK-TP2A can communicate with the warehouse’s central Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) that manages the entire conveyor system. Using industrial protocols like Modbus TCP/IP or Ethernet/IP, it can signal the PLC to start/stop the conveyor line or control the diverter based on its verification results, making the tunnel an intelligent, fully integrated node within the larger material handling ecosystem.