Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a member of the SATS Group, is set to roll out a 3D modelling software for air cargo across its Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia (EMEAA) network following a successful proof of concept (POC) in its cargo terminal at Copenhagen Airport.

Launched in 2023, the ContourSpect software was developed by Cind to build ULDs more efficiently and to optimise cargo capacity. The software creates a 3D model of cargo loaded on an air cargo pallet and compares this in real time with the selected virtual contour.

ContourSpect uses 3D cameras positioned around the ULD build-up area to monitor the contour frame. Fixed screens provide the cargo operator with real-time updates, providing one fixed picture from each corner and one rotating contour. A green frame confirms no cargo is outside of the contour, while a red frame alerts the operator to cargo placed outside of the contour, which could result in an overbuilt ULD being sent to a flight.

WFS, who was selected as the launch partner for the software in the cargo handling industry, explained that the tool is designed to eliminate the need for manual measurements and time-consuming quality control by immediately indicating if the ULD build-up is out of contour. This increases operational productivity and ensures that all ULDs leaving the warehouse are 100 percent ‘fit to fly’ —an integral part of the group’s commitment to aviation safety and security, the company noted.

The software was created by Cind’s research and product development team in Jönköping, Sweden, as part of the company’s focus to advance supply chain logistics and to help companies gain efficiency.

Using 3D image processing for freight dimensioning, ContourSpect provides an automated and cost-efficient solution that can optimise labour resources, support sustainability by reducing duplication in the ULD build process, and provide valuable analytics.