DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present invention generally relates to a communication and control system for a check-in system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a baggage weight monitoring, retrieval and entry system for a check in system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the invention. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present invention, and not as admissions of prior art.
[003] Conventionally, transit systems such as airlines have check in counters for passengers and their baggage. Passengers can choose to carry on their baggage, or have it checked in. In case of a checked-in baggage, the transit service provider takes responsibility for the baggage until the destination is reached, whereas the checked-in baggage is handed back to the passenger.
[004] Conventionally, each transit service provider have either dedicated or Common Use workstations at each check in counter, which is integrated into a local network, and a server capable of catering to multiple local networks to facilitate better flow of communication. The details of every passenger and their baggage are stored and communicated over wired and wireless communication networks to the required terminals. While both railways and airlines face the challenge of handling excess weight, the challenge can be more severe in the case of airlines.
[005] A departure control system (DCS) is usually installed in the workstations at each check in counter to allow entry and verification of the data of the passenger and their baggage in a secure manner. Weighing scales are often employed to ensure that the baggage does not exceed the maximum permissible limit. This is important because firstly, the captain of the aircraft requires the exact weight of the aircraft before take-off to make critical calculations necessary for a safe departure and arrival including take-off speed, fuel during take-off, etc. Secondly, because the workers who handle the baggage should not be put under too much strain in lifting heavy baggage. Further, baggage is an ancillary unbundled service for airlines, which the airlines charges for exceeding the permissible weight limit per passenger. Excess weight also results in the consumption of extra fuel during travel, and the usage of extra manpower at the terminals, which is also a contributory factor.
[006] Conventionally, at the check-in counter, there are dedicated baggage scales designed to accurately measure the weight of the baggage. Passengers are required to place their bags on the baggage scale. The weight is measured once the bag is settled on the scale and stabilized. The weight of the bag is then displayed on the scale, and the airline staff manually records the weight of each checked bag in their system. The recorded weight is used for various purposes, including but not limited to calculating excess baggage charges, ensuring the aircraft is loaded within safe weight limits, estimation of fuel, space for cargo, etc. Once the bag is weighed and the information is recorded, the airline provides a baggage tag that includes details such as the name of the passenger, flight number, traveling sector (destination) and a barcode linked to the baggage's information. The baggage are usually transported to the loading areas via conveyor belts.
[007] Due to the interchangeability of the check in counters between various airlines, usually every check in counter is facilitated by a standardized Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) / Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) platform system which hosts the respective airlines’ DCS system. Weighing scales are often integrated into a conveyor belt system. These are static scales incorporated within the conveyor belt located beside the check in counter. The scales are only able to measure the weight of the baggage once it is stationary on the conveyor belt. The weight of the baggage is then shown on a digital or analog scale, which is manually recorded by the attendant on the DCS system via the CUTE/CUPPS platform system.
[008] The DCS and the weighing scales operate independently of each other, necessitating the requirement for the manual entry of the weight into the DCS by the attendant. Such manual entries by the attendants are prone to human errors and could result in capturing of inaccurate / incorrect weights. This can potentially cause loss of revenue for the airline from under-quoting of the baggage weights by the attendants. More severely, this can potentially pose a challenge in terms of flight safety from a load and trim perspective.
[009] There are several challenges to modifying the existing systems. The DCS in the CUTE/CUPPS systems are isolated from the weighing scales at the check in counters. There are no existing protocols and communication standards that apply to all the CUTE/CUPPS systems and DCS for weighing scale communication. Further, there is usually very little or no scope of modification to the physical hardware at the check in counters since that would require lengthy approvals from various stakeholders. The DCS is generally not designed towards customization, and is instead used on a standardized subscription basis. And lastly, the existing weighing scales would be required to be replaced and upgraded, which is a significant technical challenge in an existing infrastructure.
[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a new baggage weight monitoring and entry system that can overcome the limitations of the existing systems, and integrate into the existing systems without requiring significant modifications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In an aspect, a baggage weight monitoring and entry system in a Common Use Terminal Equipment / Common Use Passenger Processing System is disclosed. The Common Use Terminal Equipment / Common Use Passenger Processing System comprises a peripheral control manager, a departure control system, and one or more peripheral devices. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system is connected to the departure control system. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system is communicatively connected to a weighing scale.
[0012] In an embodiment, the weighing scale is communicatively connected to the departure control system through the baggage weight monitoring and entry system.
[0013] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from one or more signals received from the weighing scale, and communicate the determined weight to the departure control system.
[0014] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system is configured to determine whether a weight of a baggage is above a predefined threshold weight, detect any manipulations / overriding of weight entries and communicate to the departure control system of the baggage being overweight.
[0015] In an embodiment, the departure control system is configured to receive one or more signals indicative of a weight of a baggage. The departure control system is further configured to calculate the weight of the baggage. The departure control system is further configured to automatically fill the weight against details of a passenger.
[0016] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system is connected to a cloud server. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system is further configured to transmit baggage weight and transaction data to the cloud server.
[0017] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system is configured to be communicatively connected to a common weight scale interface.
[0018] In an embodiment, the common weight scale interface is configured to integrate one or more weighing scales with the baggage weight monitoring and entry system.
[0019] In an embodiment, the one or more peripheral devices include an Automatic Ticketing and Boarding Pass Printer (ATB), a Baggage Tag Printer (BTP), a Document Control Printer (DCP), a Boarding Gate Reader (BGR), a Magnetic Swipe Reader (MSR), an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) reader, and a Bar Code Reader (BCR).
[0020] In an aspect, a method for real-time baggage weight monitoring in a departure control system is disclosed. The method comprises the step of receiving, by a baggage weight monitoring and entry system, an activation signal from the departure control system. The method further comprises the step of determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system, a weighing scale being communicatively connected to the system. The method further comprises the step of determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system, a weight of a baggage on the weighing scale. The method further comprises the step of transmitting, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system, a signal indicative of the weight of the baggage to the departure control system.
[0021] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of determining, by the departure control system, a total weight of baggage items being carried. The method further comprises the step of transmitting, by the departure control system (104), the total weight of baggage items to a cloud server.
[0022] In an embodiment, one or more processors are configured to access a database of baggage weights in the cloud server, and further configured to calculate optimum fuel requirements according to the baggage weight.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0023] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
[0024] Figure 1 illustrates an existing CUTE/CUPPS system.
[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram representation of the baggage weight monitoring and entry system integrated with the existing CUTE/CUPPS system.
[0026] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram representing the process flow in the baggage weight monitoring and entry system.
[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram representing the interconnection between the baggage weight monitoring and entry system with one or more weight scales.

DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0028] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth.
[0029] The word “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the description, such terms are intended to be inclusive—in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word—without precluding any additional or other elements.
[0030] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or “an instance” or “one instance” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting to the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0032] Figure 1 illustrates an existing CUTE/CUPPS system 100. A CUTE/CUPPS system 100 comprises a Peripheral Control Manager (PCM) 102. The PCM 102 is configured to be connected to one or more peripheral devices in order to facilitate the passengers by enabling communication of the DCS applications with the peripherals for various input/output operations. As per an embodiment, the PCM is a part of the CUTE/CUPPS system which is operated by an attendant. The PCM 102 comprises at least a processor (not shown), a memory unit (not shown), and one or more input / output terminals (not shown). In an embodiment, the PCM also comprises a display device. The input / output terminals are used to connect the PCM 102 to the one or more peripheral devices. As per an embodiment, the one or more peripheral devices include an Automatic Ticketing and Boarding Pass Printer (ATB) 108, a Baggage Tag Printer (BTP) 110, a Document Control Printer (DCP) 112, a Boarding Gate Reader (BGR )114, a Magnetic Swipe Reader (MSR) 116, an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) reader 118, and a Bar Code Reader (BCR) 120. Additionally, a weighing scale 106 is an independent device physically placed adjacent to the CUTE/CUPPS system and is not a part of the CUTE/CUPPS system 100 and is not connected to the PCM 102. The DCS 104 is generally an application that utilizes PCM 102 to communicate with the peripheral devices. In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is the operating system of the PCM 102. In another embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured such that it can be accessed via the operating system of the PCM 102. The DCS 104 is configured to display the details of the passengers to the attendant. The DCS 104 generally allows the attendant to modify the details of the passengers, such as their designated seats, preferred meals, etc. When the passenger puts their baggage on the weighing scale, the attendant is required to manually read the scale, and enter the weight of the baggage on the DCS 104. In an embodiment, the CUTE/CUPPS systems 100 are interconnected to each other over a local area network. In an embodiment, the CUTE/CUPPS systems 100 are connected to cloud server 302 (described in description of figure 3). In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to communicate the data on the CUTE/CUPPS system 100 to the cloud server 302.
[0033] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram representation of the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 integrated with the existing CUTE/CUPPS system 100. In an embodiment, the weighing scale 106 displays the weight of the baggage. In another embodiment, the weighing scale is communicatively connected to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from one or more signals received from the weighing scale 106. In an embodiment, the weight of the baggage is communicated to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 from the weighing scale by one of wired and wireless connection means. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is communicatively connected to the weighing scale by a RS232-to-USB connector. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is communicatively connected to the DCS 104. In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from one or more signals received from the weighing scale 106. In another embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from one or more signals received from the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the weight of the baggage is communicated to the DCS 104 by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 by one of wired and wireless communication means. In an embodiment, the weight of the baggage is displayed on the display device of the PCM 102 on being communicated to the DCS 104 by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202.
[0034] In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to receive a confirmation through a manual input for the weight being displayed on the weighing scale 106 and the DCS 104 being equal. In another embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to only display the weight of the baggage communicated by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to only display the weight of the baggage determined based on the one or more signals communicated by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202.
[0035] In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is configured to calculate whether the weight of the baggage is below a predefined threshold weight. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is above the predefined threshold weight, the DCS 104 is configured to determine extra charges to be applied for the baggage at a predefined rate. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is below the predefined threshold weight, the DCS 104 is configured to display a message that the weight of the baggage is within the allowed limits. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is above the predefined threshold weight, the DCS 104 is configured to display the determined extra charges to be applied on the display device of the PCM 102. In an embodiment, the DCS 104 is further configured to enable one or more peripheral devices of the PCM 102 to perform one or more of receiving payment, printing receipts, printing new boarding pass, and printing baggage tag.
[0036] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to calculate whether the weight of the baggage is below a predefined threshold weight. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is above the predefined threshold weight, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to determine extra charges to be applied for the baggage at a predefined rate. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is below the predefined threshold weight, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to display a message on the PCM 102 through the DCS 104 that the weight of the baggage is within the allowed limits. In an embodiment, if the weight of the baggage is above the predefined threshold weight, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to display the determined extra charges to be applied on the display device of the PCM 102 through the DCS 104.
[0037] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 can be called on the DCS 104 on demand. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 sends a command to the weighing scale and the weighing scale responds with the weight, and the weight is transmitted to the DCS 104 by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In another embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 can be called on the DCS 104 as a continuous stream. The weighing scale is continuously streaming output to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202, and the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 takes the input when necessary.
[0038] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram representing the process flow in the baggage weight monitoring and entry system. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to retrieve the weight of the baggage from the weighing scale 106. Further, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to monitor the DCS 104. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is also configured to transmit and fill the weight of the baggage in the DCS 104. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is also connected to a cloud server 302. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to transmit the baggage and transaction data to the cloud server 302. In an embodiment, the conveyor belt is configured with one or more load determining cells. In an embodiment, the weight of the bag is displayed on a digital scale based on the weight determined by the one or more load determining cells. In an embodiment, one or more signals from the load are communicated to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from the one or more signals received from the load determining cells. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 transmits the determined weight to a cloud server 302.
[0039] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to monitor the DCS 104. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is called when the DCS 104 is activated. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to receive one or more signals from the DCS 104 of the passenger details. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is communicatively connected to one or more cloud servers 302 through one of wired and wireless communication. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to transmit the weight of the baggage of the passenger to the one or more cloud servers 302. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to transmit to the cloud server 302 one or more data regarding the excess payment. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to transmit all data related to the baggage to the cloud server 302.
[0040] In an embodiment, the communication between the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 and the cloud server is encrypted by multi layer security protocols. In another embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to display all baggage transactions at any designated terminal for a predefined time period and a predefined location. In an embodiment, the designated terminal is any CUTE/CUPPS system 100 connected to the cloud server 302. In an embodiment, the CUTE/CUPPS systems 100 are connected to the cloud server 302 by one of wired and wireless communication means.
[0041] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 comprises at least a processor, a memory unit, and one or more input / output terminals. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to utilize the processor and memory unit of the PCM 102. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is integrated with the CUTE/CUPPS system 100 by adding one or more dynamic link libraries in the memory unit of the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is an application programming interface (API). In an embodiment, a wired connection between the weighing scale 106 and the CUTE/CUPPS system 100 is established using one or more of a universal serial bus (USB), RS-232, hardware tapping of weighing scale and analog to digital circuit (ADC).
[0042] Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram representing the interconnection between the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 with one or more weight scales 402, 403, 404, 405. In an embodiment, a common weight scale interface 401 is configured between the one or more weight scales 402, 403, 404, 405 and the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. The common weight scale interface 401 is configured to enable the integration of various models of weighing scales with the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. The common weight scale interface 401 is configured to store one or more dynamic link libraries in the memory unit of the common weight scale interface 401. This allows the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 to not be reconfigured for different weighing scales from different original equipment manufacturers. The figure exemplarily describes various modules of dynamic link libraries stored in the memory unit of the common weight scale interface 401. In an embodiment, there is at least one dynamic link library file stored in the memory unit of the common weight scale interface 401. In an embodiment, a plurality of dynamic link library files is stored in the memory unit of the common weight scale interface 401.
[0043] In an embodiment, the common weight scale interface 401 is configured to select one of the plurality of dynamic link library files stored therein, and enable a communicative connection to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to access at least one of the dynamic link library files in the memory unit of the common weight scale interface 401.
[0044] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured with a calibration mode, wherein the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to calibrate the weight readings from the load determining cells.
[0045] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to store previous transaction data in its memory unit. In an embodiment, the previous stored data is classified into one of older than a first predefined time period, older than a second predefined time period but younger than the first predefined time period, and younger than the second predefined time period. In an embodiment, the first predefined time period is 60 days, and the second predefined time period is 30 days. In another embodiment, the first predefined time period is 1 year, and the second predefined time period is 2 months.
[0046] The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 implements one or more methods to enable an automatic monitoring and entry of the baggage weights. As per an embodiment, the method comprises the first step of receiving, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system, an activation signal from the departure control system 104. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is activated by the departure control system 104 when a passenger detail is being entered. The PCM 102 receives one or more inputs from the one or more peripheral devices connected to it. The departure control system 104 initiates a connection to the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202. The method further comprises the step of determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202, a weighing scale 106 being communicatively connected to the system 202. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202, upon receiving the activation signal from the departure control system 104 checks whether the weighing scale 106 is connected to the system 202. If the weighing scale 106 is connected, the system 202 retrieves a signal from the weighing scale 106 indicative of the weight of the baggage. The method further comprises the step of determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202, a weight of a baggage on the weighing scale 106. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 calculates the weight of the baggage from the signal received from the weighing scale 106. The method further comprises the step of transmitting, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202), a signal indicative of the weight of the baggage to the departure control system. The system 202 transmits the determined baggage weight to the departure control system 104. In an embodiment, the system is configured to automatically record the baggage weight with the passenger details when the passenger is checking in.
[0047] As per an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of determining, by the departure control system 104, a total weight of baggage items being carried. The method comprises the step of transmitting, by the departure control system 104, the total weight of baggage items to a cloud server (302). The departure control system 104 calculates the total weight of all the baggage items that are carried on a particular trip. The departure control system 104 also transmits the baggage weight values to a remote cloud server.
[0048] In an embodiment, one or more processors are configured to access a database of baggage weights in the cloud server. An authorized user can access the server where the baggage weight data is stored, and use the information to make other relevant calculations. Such a processor can be further configured to calculate optimum fuel requirements according to the baggage weight. In an embodiment, the processors may calculate the optimum flight plan, compute total weight of the aircraft based on other known data.
[0049] In an embodiment, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is exited upon receiving an exit key, comparing the received exit key with a pre-defined key, and determining whether the received exit key is equal to the pre-defined key. In an embodiment, an APIkey is received and validated by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 for one or more API requests. In an embodiment, the APIkey may contain multi layered plurality of header information for a plurality of APIs.
[0050] Advantageously, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 does not require any modification to any of the plurality of methods in the CUTE/CUPPS system 100 thus requiring no change to the existing infrastructure. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 automates a previously manual process, thus reducing the turnaround time per passenger at the check in counters. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 monitors the DCS 104 and is configured to allow the actual weight of the baggage to be transmitted to the DCS 104, thus alleviating the need for any manual intervention. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to enable at least 50000 transactions per hour. Furthermore, since the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 is configured to directly upload the weight data to the cloud server, calculating the cargo weight of the aircraft, and planning for fuel will be more efficient, reducing cost of operation wastage of fuel. Other advantages of the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202 include improved efficiency, accuracy, data integration, and enhanced passenger experience. Automating weight measurement and data entry speeds up the check-in process, reducing wait times for passengers. Real-time weight monitoring ensures accurate weight recording, minimizing human error and discrepancies. Seamless integration with departure control systems allows for automatic updates to passenger records, reducing the need for manual data entry. Storing data in the cloud enables better data management and analytics, helping airlines optimize operations and improve customer service. By reducing manual processes and improving operational efficiency, airlines can lower labour costs and enhance resource allocation. A smoother check-in process can lead to higher customer satisfaction, as passengers spend less time waiting and more time enjoying their travel experience.
[0051] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented merely as illustrative of the invention and not as limitation. ,CLAIMS:We claim:
1. A baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) in a Common Use Terminal Equipment / Common Use Passenger Processing System (100, 200), the Common Use Terminal Equipment / Common Use Passenger Processing System (100, 200) comprising: a peripheral control manager (102), a departure control system (104), and one or more peripheral devices, the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) being connected to the departure control system (104), wherein the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) is communicatively connected to a weighing scale (106).

2. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the weighing scale (106) is communicatively connected to the departure control system (104) through the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202).

3. The baggage weigh monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (202) is configured to determine the weight of the baggage from one or more signals received from the weighing scale (106), and communicate the determined weight to the departure control system (104).

4. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (202) is configured to determine whether a weight of a baggage is above a predefined threshold weight, detect any manipulations / overriding of weight entries and communicate to the departure control system (202) of the baggage being overweight.

5. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the departure control system (104) is configured to receive one or more signals indicative of a weight of a baggage, calculate the weight of the baggage, and automatically fill the weight against details of a passenger.

6. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (202) is connected to a cloud server (302), and is configured to transmit baggage weight and transaction data to the cloud server (302).

7. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (202) is configured to be communicatively connected to a common weight scale interface (401).

8. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the common weight scale interface 401 is configured to integrate one or more weighing scales (402, 403, 404, 405) with the baggage weight monitoring and entry system 202.

9. The baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more peripheral devices include an Automatic Ticketing and Boarding Pass Printer (ATB) (108), a Baggage Tag Printer (BTP) (110), a Document Control Printer (DCP) (112), a Boarding Gate Reader (BGR ) (114), a Magnetic Swipe Reader (MSR) (116), an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) reader (118), and a Bar Code Reader (BCR) (120).

10. A method for real-time baggage weight monitoring in a departure control system (104), the method comprising the steps of:
receiving, by a baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202), an activation signal from the departure control system (104),
determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202), a weighing scale (106) being communicatively connected to the system (202),
determining, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202), a weight of a baggage on the weighing scale (106),
transmitting, by the baggage weight monitoring and entry system (202), a signal indicative of the weight of the baggage to the departure control system.

11. The method as claimed in claim 11, further comprising
determining, by the departure control system (104), a total weight of baggage items being carried,
transmitting, by the departure control system (104), the total weight of baggage items to a cloud server (302).

12. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein one or more processors are configured to access a database of baggage weights in the cloud server (302), and further configured to calculate optimum fuel requirements according to the baggage weight.