Methods for the identification and inspection of reusable transport packaging for goods in a logistics cycle

Abstract

A method for identifying and inspecting transport packaging (10) for goods in a logistics cycle (12), wherein the mechanical, physical and / or chemical properties (18) of the transport packaging (10) are automatically recorded using an inspection unit (20) and the property data (18) relating to soiling and damage are automatically classified with regard to possible reuse in the logistics cycle (12). Furthermore, a space-saving, foldable, reusable transport packaging (10) is proposed.

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to transport packaging for the transport of goods and to a method for the unambiguous identification of such transport packaging and for inspecting and classifying the condition of a transport packaging with regard to possible reuse in a logistics cycle. Background of the invention

[0002] Due to changes in supply processes and the significant increase in e-commerce and mail order, the number of required transport packaging materials is also rising. Single-use packaging is a common option, but it represents a high consumption of resources and requires considerable effort for disposal. Alternatively, returnable container systems exist, although these typically have to be returned to the manufacturer via long logistics routes. This also incurs significant costs in connection with the necessary cleaning and inspection, particularly due to the continued need for long transport distances.

[0003] There are known solutions that attempt to compensate for the aforementioned disadvantages by allowing transport packaging to remain in circulation permanently and not requiring it to be returned to a central location as a matter of course. The challenge, however, lies in ensuring that the transport packaging in circulation is in a proper condition for its intended use. At the same time, the complexity of the processes and the costs must be kept as low as possible. Summary of the invention

[0004] Embodiments of the invention can advantageously enable the reuse of transport packaging within a logistics cycle, thus allowing for the continuous circulation of transport packaging within a logistics cycle without the need for return to a central location. This objective is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims and in the following description.

[0005] The invention described below is based, among other things, on the considerations outlined below. One of the main reasons why systems of continuously circulating transport packaging are currently rare is the lack of suitable technical solutions for effectively identifying unusable, damaged, or soiled transport packaging in order to remove it from the logistics cycle. Centralized approaches are known, for example, where personnel, testing equipment, and the corresponding cleaning or repair facilities are kept at one or a small number of locations. However, in a system of continuously circulating transport packaging, the necessary time, technical, and financial resources required to inspect the condition of transport packaging are unreasonable, especially for private customers.Furthermore, there is a lack of clear regulations and definitions regarding when transport packaging is still usable or not.

[0006] A novel method for identifying and inspecting transport packaging for goods within a logistics cycle is therefore proposed. The first step involves introducing the transport packaging into the logistics cycle. Depending on the type of goods, transport packaging can take various forms. Cardboard packaging made of different materials, especially paper, cardboard, or plastic, is particularly common. Transport crates made of plastic, metal, wood, or similar materials can also be used; these may be collapsible, thus saving space and / or allowing for stacking. Pallets and foam packaging can also be considered transport packaging. For liquids in particular, transport packaging may consist of glass or plastic (e.g., PET).Transport packaging can also be insulated, with the packaging potentially consisting of several layers of thermal insulation material. Specialized transport packaging designs can also be manufactured for use under negative or vacuum pressure, or even positive pressure.

[0007] A logistics cycle can be understood as the supply chain of goods from a sender or point of origin to a recipient. A logistics cycle can be a complex system of interconnected senders and recipients. For example, a logistics cycle might include manufacturers, distributors, and / or customers between whom goods are shipped. The transport packaging has an identifier for unique identification. In other words, it is a unique identifier, so that each transport package can be uniquely identified via this identifier and is therefore logistically, user-related, and geographically traceable.

[0008] In a further step, this identifier is read using an identification unit. This identification unit can be, for example, a scanner that operates using various optical, electromagnetic, or other methods. In one example, the identification unit is designed to identify the transport packaging using imaging techniques and / or image recognition and to determine the identifier. By reading the identifier, a specific transport package can be uniquely identified.

[0009] In a subsequent step, the extracted identifier is assigned to a user account. This user could be, for example, a customer or retailer to whom a shipment is addressed or who is sending a shipment. A user account can be part of a user management system that manages a large number of shipping packages and users. A key advantage is that this allows for the localization of a specific shipping package, as it is assigned to a particular user. The link between the shipping package and the user account enables the integration of payment processes and deposit return systems.

[0010] In a further step, property data of the transport packaging is acquired using an inspection unit. This inspection unit records property data relating to the mechanical, physical, and / or chemical properties of the transport packaging. In other words, the inspection unit can be a technical testing device that generates individual data on the transport packaging using various methods. This property data is selected to capture relevant information in the context of the transport packaging's use. Examples include: geometric data, surface finish, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, sound transmission, radiation resistance, optical / spectral properties, surface reflection properties, material elasticity, color gradients, historical acceleration data (recorded drops or impacts), and similar information.In one example, the transport packaging has one or more sensors designed to detect and / or store acceleration, temperature, radiation, position, delivery data and / or data on previous use and previous users.

[0011] In a further step, the inspection unit analyzes the property data. This analysis involves assigning the transport packaging's identifier to a condition class, and the condition class describes the transport packaging's suitability for further use in the logistics cycle. The inspection unit comprises a computer with a processor, the necessary peripherals, and the required program steps to analyze the property data. Condition classes are defined, each assigning specific value ranges of property data or combinations of different property data to a particular condition class.For example, a condition class can describe the further usability of a transport packaging, as it contains value ranges of certain properties that indicate sufficient mechanical stability, cleanliness and functionality of the transport packaging.

[0012] For example, the condition classes can be calculated based on an analysis of historical property data of a transport package in relation to its suitability or unsuitability for reuse. Training data for a machine learning model can be generated based on verified decisions regarding property data and reusability. The advantage of machine analysis of the property data is a significantly reduced testing time and a much more transparent and accurate decision regarding the continued usability of a transport package.

[0013] Based on the analysis step, the transport packaging is removed from the logistics cycle in a further step if its condition class indicates it is no longer suitable for use. In other words, this might involve, for example, returning a defective transport package to a service provider or disposing of it, and consequently, no further use in the primary logistics cycle for transporting goods. Optionally, as in one example, the identifier can be deleted from the user's account in this case. The transport packaging is thus decoupled from the user. However, if the condition class indicates further usability, as in another example, the transport packaging remains in the logistics cycle and is reused. Decoupling the transport packaging from the current user account or deleting the identifier can also occur at other times.For example, decoupling or deletion can occur when a new user account of a dealer, a customer and / or a maintenance employee is linked to the transport packaging identifier.

[0014] In one embodiment, the assignment to the condition class by the inspection unit involves classifying the property data based on a machine learning model. Such models can utilize, for example, artificial neural networks, decision tree models, deep learning models, support vector machines, Bayesian learning, reinforcement learning, or similar principles. For this purpose, historical and verified data are selected, validated for correctness, and compiled into qualified training data. This data is then used to train the models known in the prior art, which are subsequently employed for classification.

[0015] In another embodiment, the inspection unit features pre-trained, transport packaging-specific machine learning models. This feature is based on the following considerations: Decentralized classification, for example using a smartphone or an automated device such as a reverse vending machine, is technically challenging because the available computing and storage capacities are limited. Consequently, it is desirable to use highly efficient algorithms that require as little energy and processing cycles as possible. For this purpose, the models can be pre-trained to a high standard by a central authority, and only the fully trained models, with significantly less data volume, can be transferred to the devices with the inspection units.

[0016] In one embodiment, the identifier is implemented as an RFID, QR code, label, and / or serial number and is readable electronically, optically, and / or wirelessly via electromagnetic means. Furthermore, the identifier is designed to read postage data related to transport packaging from a postage database. In other words, the electronically readable identifier is also used to identify or reference postage information or other logistically relevant information such as sender, recipient, shipping options, or information about the transported goods.

[0017] In one embodiment, the identification and / or inspection unit is located in a mobile device, particularly a smartphone. Implementing this in a mobile device advantageously allows users to remotely and independently record and document the condition of transport packaging, for example, by capturing image data. Damaged transport packaging can thus be identified with minimal technical effort and classified to determine whether it is suitable for further use. According to one example, the mobile device is configured to generate three-dimensional image data of the transport packaging as property data. This can be achieved, for instance, by moving the smartphone around the packaging. This allows for the advantageous identification of mechanical damage such as dents, tears, and similar defects.

[0018] In one embodiment, property data is acquired using ultrasound, X-ray, imaging, humidity sensors, motion sensors, accelerometers, and / or weight sensors. Classification is then performed, for example, based on trained models capable of distinguishing between acceptable or absent damage and unacceptable damage that precludes further use.

[0019] In one embodiment, the identification and inspection units are arranged in a reverse vending machine for deposit containers. According to one example, the reverse vending machine is designed for bottles and jars commonly used in the food retail sector. The solution involves extending these machines with an additional function that allows for the inspection and identification of transport packaging, thus providing users with a convenient way to return used transport packaging. According to another embodiment, the identification and / or inspection unit is located in the bottle crate input area of ​​the reverse vending machine. The size of the return compartment advantageously allows for the return of transport packaging such as crates or boxes.

[0020] In a further aspect of the invention, a foldable transport packaging for shipping goods is proposed. This can be designed, for example, as a cardboard box or transport crate. Two parallel, opposing side walls of a cuboid transport packaging each have a fold originating from one corner at an angle of plus 45 degrees and a fold originating from the other corner of the same plane of this side wall at an angle of minus 45 degrees to a base surface of the transport packaging, so that these side walls, as well as the two other side walls arranged between them, can be folded down towards the base surface. This folding technique ensures that the base area is not increased when folded, and, particularly with regard to contamination and handling, that inner surfaces only come into contact with inner surfaces and not with outer surfaces.

[0021] In one embodiment, the transport packaging has a spring mechanism that is tensioned when folded and a locking mechanism that holds the packaging in a folded state. This locking mechanism also includes a release unit that can be triggered by a reverse vending machine for deposit containers. Given that empty transport packaging should be stored in a space-saving manner, but that an unfolded state is necessary for effective inspection, a solution is needed that requires little or no technical effort or physical exertion for unfolding, especially during automated returns. The release mechanism releases the mechanical energy stored in the spring mechanism to move the transport packaging from a folded to an unfolded state.For example, this triggering can be achieved using a magnetic unlocking unit, whereby, for instance, a sufficiently strong magnetic field is briefly activated near the triggering mechanism in a reverse vending machine.

[0022] It should be understood that features of the process, as described above and below, can also be features of the transport packaging, and vice versa. Brief description of the characters

[0023] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. Neither the description nor the figures are to be interpreted as limiting the invention. Fig. Figure 1 shows a method according to the invention for the identification and inspection of transport packaging for goods in a logistics cycle. Fig. Figure 2 shows an inspection unit according to the invention comprising a sensor part and an analysis part based on a machine learning model. Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of an identification unit and inspection unit according to the invention in a smartphone. Fig. Figure 4 shows a reverse vending machine with bottle crate input, an inspection unit and an identification unit. Fig. Figure 5 shows three different examples of transport packaging. Fig. Figure 6 shows a foldable transport package with 45-degree folds. Fig. Figure 7 shows the structure of a transport packaging made up of different layers of material. Fig. Sections 8A to 8C each show flowcharts for a logistics cycle and reusable transport packaging.

[0024] The drawings are schematic only and not to scale. Identical or similar parts are generally identified by the same reference symbols. Detailed description of implementation examples

[0025] Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of a method 100 for the identification and inspection of transport packaging 10 for goods in a logistics cycle 12 (see also Fig. 8A - 8C). A logistics cycle 12 can be understood as a system of senders, intermediate stations, and recipients of a transported good. A transport package 10 for such a transported good can be transported in such a system along various paths between the individual stations, which can each be a sender, recipient, or intermediate station. In a step 110, the transport package 10 is made available in a logistics cycle 12, the transport package 10 having an identifier 14 for the unique identification of this transport package 10. In a further step 120, the identifier 14 of the transport package 10 is read by an identification unit 16. This can be done, for example, using a scanner or suitable sensors.

[0026] This extracted identifier 14 is then assigned to a user account in a further step 130. This can be done, for example, using a suitable database. Identifying and linking the transport packaging 10 to a user account advantageously enables automated payment processes or account entries. For example, if retailers receive many returns, they could theoretically reuse the associated transport packaging 10 free of charge. By identifying and assigning the packaging to a user account, user information and fees can be kept up-to-date in a timely manner.

[0027] In step 140, property data 18 of the transport packaging 10 are recorded using an inspection unit 20. Property data 18 can describe mechanical, physical, and / or chemical properties of the transport packaging 10. The property data 18 can be recorded, for example, using suitable sensors 22 or by manual input of information by a user. In the subsequent step, the property data 18 are analyzed 150 using the inspection unit 20. This analysis determines a condition class 26, which describes the suitability of the transport packaging 10 for further use in the logistics cycle 12.

[0028] This condition class 26 is linked to the identifier 14 and thus to the specific transport packaging 10 in question, for example, as a data record in a database. Based on this condition class 26 determined in the preceding step 150, the transport packaging 10 is removed from the logistics cycle 12 in step 160 if the condition class indicates that the transport packaging 10 is no longer usable. In other words, this describes the case where the transport packaging 10 has damage or soiling that precludes further use.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2 shows an example of an inspection unit 20 for classifying property data 18 of a transport package 10. First, an identification unit 16 is provided to identify a provided transport package 10, which, for example, detects an RFID or QR code of the transport package 10. Furthermore, a transport package 10, which is, for example, in circulation between retailers and customers, is checked for damage or contamination. For this purpose, suitable sensors 23 are provided that detect various mechanical, physical, and / or chemical properties of the transport package 10.This can include, for example: capturing surface structures and surface geometries of a transport package 10 using cameras or optical scanners to detect deformations, detecting contamination using UV methods, spectral methods to detect color changes, optical methods, ultrasound methods and similar testing methods.

[0030] The sensor data from sensors 23 are transmitted to a sensor unit 22 of the inspection unit 20, possibly normalized and / or compressed, and supplied as property data 18 to an analysis unit 24 of the inspection unit 20. This analysis unit 24 has a processor 30 configured to perform an analysis 150 of this property data 18. For this purpose, a machine learning model 28 is provided in the analysis unit 24 of the inspection unit 20. This machine learning model 28 can, according to an example, already be pre-trained on specific predefined types of transport packaging 10. For example, training the model can consist of using verified data sets of acceptable damage or contamination and unacceptable damage or contamination of transport packaging 10 as training data for the machine learning model 28.As a result, the analysis part 24 of the inspection unit 20 provides a classification result 26, i.e. a condition class with regard to a possible further use of the transport packaging 10 in the logistics cycle 12.

[0031] In Fig. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an identification unit 16 and an inspection unit 20 arranged in a mobile device, here a smartphone 36. A smartphone 36 provides a variety of sensors and communication interfaces suitable for examining a transport package 10, particularly for mechanical damage. First, an RFID chip 32 can be read using an NFC (Near Field Communication) module in the smartphone 36. Alternatively, a QR code, for example, can be read using a camera module 38 as an identifier 14. To detect damage or contamination using imaging techniques, the smartphone 36 can be moved three-dimensionally around the transport package 10, as shown here, thereby generating image data from different perspectives.

[0032] This allows, for example, the creation of a three-dimensional model of the transport packaging 10, which is then subjected to classification. This can be done, for instance, using a trained artificial neural network, which classifies image data and determines a condition class 26 as an output variable for the specific transport packaging 10. The analysis unit 24 of the inspection unit 20 can utilize the processors of the smartphone 36. The classification result, i.e., the condition class 26, can then be displayed, for example, on a screen of the smartphone 36. This could, for instance, be the specific instruction for a user to remove the transport packaging 10 from the logistics cycle 12.

[0033] Fig. Figure 4 shows a reverse vending machine 42 for deposit containers, which has an input opening 46 for deposit containers with an operating unit 48. A bottle crate input 44 is provided in the lower part. Due to the dimensions of the provided opening of the bottle crate input 44, it would be possible to additionally provide an inspection unit 20 and / or an identification unit 16 there. This allows a transport container 10 to be inserted into the bottle crate input 44, which is then uniquely identified by the identification unit 16 with its identifier 14 and can further be inspected for damage or contamination by the inspection unit 20.

[0034] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 4, the transport container 10 is inserted in a folded state. Since this may be inconvenient for inspection, i.e., for recording property data 140, the transport packaging 10 is equipped with a spring mechanism (not shown here) that is tensioned when folded and also has a locking mechanism 50 that holds the transport packaging 10 in a folded state. This locking mechanism 50 can be triggered by, for example, a mechanical, electrical, or magnetic release unit 52 in the reverse vending machine 42, so that the folded transport packaging 10 moves into an unfolded state for better inspection. In this way, an infrastructure of reverse vending machines can be advantageously upgraded to also accept the return of transport packaging 10.According to one example, the reverse vending machine 42 is designed to convert an unfolded transport packaging 10 into a folded state. This can be achieved, for example, with a suitable actuator and actuating elements (not shown) that engage or actuate the unfolded transport packaging and effect its folding.

[0035] In Fig. Figure 5 shows three different examples of transport packaging 10. These are each cuboid and foldable. Two parallel, opposing side walls each have a fold 54 extending from one corner at an angle of +45° and a fold extending from the other corner of the same plane at an angle of -45° to a base surface 56 of the transport packaging. This allows the side walls 58, as well as the two side walls 58 positioned between them, to be folded down towards the base surface 56 in a space-saving manner. The folding mechanism is shown in more detail in Figure 5. Fig. Figure 6 shows that the folded transport box 10 advantageously does not exceed the base area 56 in its horizontal dimensions.

[0036] Fig. Figure 7 shows an example of the structure of a transport packaging material 10, consisting of several layers, for example, of a water-repellent material. According to one example, this material is designed to be cleaned and / or disinfected by UV light, steam, isopropanol, or similar methods. The materials can be rigid or flexible, or fabric-like. The material consists of an inner layer 60, a middle layer 62, and an outer layer 64. According to one example, a rigid layer is inserted as the middle layer 62 or as an additional layer between the two outer layers to increase stability. According to another example, the middle layer has a grid structure made of rods. According to another example, the layers 60, 62, and 64 can be separated from each other at the end of the transport packaging 10's service life. Thus, the material can be recycled or composted.

[0037] Fig. 8A, Fig. 8B and Fig. Section 8C describes an exemplary logistics cycle 12 with retailers, end customers (users), and maintenance centers. Such a maintenance center could, for example, be located in a shopping center, where the provision 110, identification 120, inspection 140, and analysis 150 of a large number of transport packages 10 can be carried out centrally for a large number of local retailers. For better understanding, selected steps are marked with the reference symbols for the steps of the procedure 100 described above.

[0038] It should also be noted that "comprehensive" does not exclude any other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps from other embodiments described above. Reference numerals in the claims are not to be considered as limitations. Reference symbol list 100 methods for identification and inspection 110 Providing the transport packaging 120 Reading the identifier 130 Assigning the extracted identifier 140 Recording property data 150 Analyzing the property data 160 Removal of the transport packaging from the logistics cycle 10 Transport packaging 12 Logistics cycle 14 Identifier 16 Identification unit 18 property data 20 inspection units 22 Sensor component of the inspection unit 23 sensors 24 Analysis section of the inspection unit 26 Classification result (condition class) 28 Machine Learning Model 30 processor 32 RFID chips 34 shipping labels 36 Smartphone 38 camera modules 40 NFC modules 42 Return machine 44 bottle crate entry 46 Input opening 48 Control unit 50 locking mechanism 52 Unlocking unit 54 fold 56 square meters of floor space 58 side wall 60 inner layer 62 middle layer 64 outer layer

Claims

[1] Method (100) for identifying and inspecting transport packaging (10) for goods in a logistics circuit (12), comprising the steps: - Providing (110) the transport packaging (10) in a logistics circuit (12), wherein the transport packaging has an identifier (14) for the unique identification of this transport packaging (10); - reading (120) the identifier of the transport packaging (10) with an identification unit; - Assigning (130) the read-out identifier (14) to a user account of a user; - capturing (140) property data of the transport packaging (10) using an inspection unit (20), wherein the property data (18) describe mechanical, physical and / or chemical properties of the transport packaging (10); - analyzing (150) the property data (18) with the aid of the inspection unit (20), wherein the analyzing comprises an assignment of the identifier of the transport packaging (10) to a condition class (26) and the condition class (26) describes a suitability of the transport packaging (10) for further use in the logistics cycle (12). - Removal of the transport packaging (10) from the logistics cycle (12) if the condition class (26) does not allow further use. [2] The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the assignment of the condition class by the inspection unit (20) comprises classifying the property data (18) based on a machine learning model (28). [3] Method (100) according to claim 2, wherein the inspection unit (24) comprises pre-trained transport packaging-specific machine learning models (28). [4] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the identifier (14) is designed as an RFID, QR code, label and / or serial number and is readable electronically, optically and / or wirelessly and the identifier is further designed to read transport packaging-related postage data from a postage database. [5] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification unit (16) and / or inspection unit (20) are arranged in a mobile device, in particular in a smartphone (36). [6] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition (140) of property data is carried out using ultrasound methods, X-ray methods, imaging methods, humidity sensors, motion sensors, acceleration sensors and / or weight sensors. [7] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification unit (16) and / or inspection unit (20) is arranged in a return machine (42) for deposit containers. [8] Method (100) according to claim 7, wherein the identification unit (16) and / or the inspection unit (20) is arranged in the region of the bottle crate input (44) of the reverse vending machine (42). [9] Foldable transport packaging (10) for transporting goods, wherein two parallel opposite side walls (58) of a cuboid-shaped transport packaging (10) each have a fold (54) starting from one corner at an angle of plus 45 degrees and a fold (54) starting from the other corner of the same plane of this side wall (58) at an angle of minus 45 degrees to a base area (56) of the transport packaging (10), so that these side walls (58) and the other two side walls (58) arranged therebetween can be folded down in the direction of the base area (56). [10] Transport packaging (10) according to claim 9, wherein the transport packaging has a spring mechanism that is tensioned upon folding and has a locking mechanism (50) that holds the transport packaging (10) in a folded state; wherein the locking mechanism has an unlocking unit (52) that can be triggered by the reverse vending machine (42).

Images