Electronic pallet and method for selectively blocking fork openings of an electronic pallet

Abstract

Electronic pallet (90) designed to be loaded onto a vehicle (1), the electronic pallet (90) comprising: - Fork openings (94) designed to receive forks (31), - a blocking mechanism (91) configured to selectively block and release the fork openings (94), and - a control device (96) configured to control the locking mechanism (91) for selectively locking and releasing the fork openings (94) based on one or more predefined criteria.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This description relates to techniques connected with vehicles and an electronic pallet with a locking mechanism designed for selectively locking and unlocking fork openings. The description also relates to an associated method, a computer program, and a computer program product for carrying out the proposed method. BACKGROUND

[0002] Pallets are commonly used for transporting goods from one location to another (e.g., from the warehouse to the retail store). Once the desired quantity of goods is loaded or stacked on the pallet, a pallet jack, hand winch, or other device is typically inserted under and / or through the pallet so that it can be lifted vertically off the ground. Once lifted, the pallet and the products stacked on it can be transported to a storage area in a warehouse, loaded onto a truck for distribution, or moved to another location. Using pallets allows for the easy movement and grouping of various products, thus simplifying shipping and transport.

[0003] The loss of goods due to theft during transport by vehicle is a well-known problem, as pallets can be unloaded relatively easily using a forklift or similar equipment. One way to prevent theft is to equip pallets with electronic tags that enable location tracking. For example, US patent application US2008 / 103944 (A1) describes a "smart" pallet with an active RFID tag embedded within it. The pallet is used in a rental system and / or an inventory management system. With the increasing use of autonomous vehicles without a driver to prevent theft, more comprehensive measures are desirable to prevent theft from occurring in the first place. SHORT DESCRIPTION

[0004] One aim of this description is to overcome at least some of the disadvantages of the current state of the art. Therefore, one aim is to present a solution that prevents pallet theft.

[0005] According to an initial description, this refers to an electronic pallet designed for loading onto a vehicle. The electronic pallet has fork openings configured to receive lifting forks. The electronic pallet further comprises a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock and release the fork openings, and a control unit configured to control the locking mechanism to selectively lock or release the fork openings according to one or more predefined criteria. This allows the fork openings to be locked during transport and storage, thereby preventing theft.

[0006] In some embodiments, the electronic pallet has a wireless communication interface, and the control unit is configured to receive authentication data using this interface. This enables the locking mechanism to control the fork openings according to the authentication data. This allows a user, such as a driver, to easily release the fork openings (e.g., for loading or unloading the electronic pallet) based on authorization via a wireless user device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface is configured to receive authentication from a forklift, a mobile connection (terminal), or an off-board system. This allows the mere presence of an authorized vehicle or user to open the fork openings. Alternatively, an authorized user can release the fork openings using an application installed on a user device (e.g., a mobile phone).

[0008] In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to control the locking mechanism for automatically locking the fork openings upon detection that a lifting fork has been removed from the fork openings or after a predetermined time period has elapsed since the fork openings were released. This improves safety, as no special action is required to lock the fork openings.

[0009] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism has pivotable and / or sliding covers that are configured to move between a closed position, in which the fork openings are blocked, and an open position, in which the fork openings are released. The covers may be configured to partially or completely block the fork openings in the closed position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electronic pallet has an actuator that is configured to move the covers between the first and second positions. Thus, the closing and releasing processes can be controlled electronically.

[0011] In some embodiments, the blocking mechanism has a locking mechanism designed to secure, in particular lock, the covers in the closed and / or open position. This prevents the position of the covers from being changed without releasing the locking mechanism. For example, only authorized users with access to an electronic key can release the fork openings.

[0012] According to a second embodiment, this description relates to a method executed by a control device in an electronic pallet designed to be loaded onto a vehicle. The electronic pallet has fork openings configured to receive lifting forks and a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock and release the fork openings. The method includes controlling the locking mechanism to selectively lock or release the fork tine receptacles according to one or more predefined criteria.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method includes receiving authentication data and controlling the blocking mechanism based on the received authentication data.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method involves receiving authentication from a forklift, a mobile connection, or an off-board system.

[0015] In some embodiments, the control system includes automatic blocking of the fork openings upon detection that a forklift has been removed, or after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the fork openings were released.

[0016] According to a third interpretation, this description relates to a computer program with instructions which, when the program is executed in a computer, cause the computer to perform the procedure according to the second interpretation.

[0017] According to a third embodiment, this description relates to a computer-readable medium containing instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the procedure according to the second embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle with an electronic pallet. Fig. Figure 2 shows an electronic palette. Fig. Figure 3 shows an electronic palette from above, accessible from four sides. Fig. 4a and Fig. Figure 4b shows an example of an implementation of a blocking mechanism according to some embodiments. Fig. 5a and Fig. Figure 5b shows an example of an implementation of a blocking mechanism according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart for a process that is executed by a control device in an electronic pallet. Fig. Figure 7 shows a control device set up to implement the proposed procedure with further details. DESCRIPTION OF DETAILS

[0018] The term "electronic pallet" here refers specifically to a pallet that can not only hold goods but also carry information about, for example, the goods on the pallet, using electronic identification as part of a logistics information system. An electronic pallet typically has an integrated energy storage device, such as a battery. The battery powers electronic circuits, enabling the electronic pallet to send and receive signals using a transmitter and receiver.

[0019] This description proposes an electronic pallet with a physical anti-theft device. Specifically, this description proposes an electronic pallet with fork openings designed to receive lifting forks (fork tines) and with a locking mechanism designed to selectively lock or release the fork openings. To release the fork openings, a vehicle (e.g., a truck with a liftgate or lifting forks) that is to move the electronic pallet, or an operator, must communicate with the electronic pallet to cause the locking mechanism to release the fork openings. This ensures that the electronic pallet can only be moved by an authorized operator and / or vehicle.

[0020] Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle 1, here a truck, with an electronic pallet 90, which supports goods 70. A vehicle will usually transport multiple pallets; however, for the sake of simplicity, only a single pallet is described in detail here. Vehicle 1 is represented by a truck, but it is understood that the electronic pallet 90 can also be loaded onto any vehicle, whether driverless or driverless. Vehicle 1 can be autonomous or remotely controlled. In other words, it can be driverless. An autonomous vehicle is controlled, for example, by an off-board system that instructs the vehicle to perform specific tasks. One such task is, for example, traveling along a route between a first location and a second location.

[0021] Vehicle 1 has a number of electronic systems and subsystems. For the sake of simplicity, however, only some components of Vehicle 1 that are related to the technology proposed here are shown. Fig. 1 shown. Thus, vehicle 1 has according to Fig. 1 an electric motor 21, an energy storage device 22 and a control unit 20.

[0022] The electric motor 21 is designed to drive and, if necessary, also to brake the vehicle 1. The energy storage device 22 is designed to supply the electric motor 21 with electricity.

[0023] The control unit 20 (or electrical control unit, ECU) is essentially a digital computer that controls one or more electrical systems of the vehicle 1 according to, for example, information read from sensors and measuring devices located at various points and on various components of the vehicle 1. ECU is a general term for a control unit used in vehicle electronics for any embedded system that controls one or more functions of the electrical system or subsystem of a transport vehicle.

[0024] The control unit 20 according to Fig. 1 is a control unit that is set up to monitor the load of vehicle 1.

[0025] The control unit 20 typically has one or more communication interfaces. Typically, the control unit 20 has an interface, e.g., a CAN bus system, which is used for communication between different control units in the vehicle 1. The CAN uses a message-based protocol. Often, several interconnected CAN networks are used in the vehicle 1. In some embodiments, the control unit 20 also has an interface configured for communication with the electronic pallet 90. For example, the electronic pallet performs a kind of "handshake" (initial communication) with the vehicle's control unit 20 during loading. Energy can then be exchanged between the vehicle 1 and the electronic pallet 90, for example, via an inductive interface (not shown).

[0026] Fig. Figure 2 shows an electronic pallet 90 with a physical anti-theft device and further details. The electronic pallet 90 is, for example, a standardized European pallet (EURO pallet) as specified by the European Pallet Association. The electronic pallet 90 is designed to be loaded onto a vehicle 1. The electronic pallet 90 has a frame 99 that facilitates the handling and storage of goods. The frame 99 is usually made of wood, but can also be made of plastic, metal, paper, and / or other materials. The frame 99 has a top 92, a bottom (not shown), and four side walls 97. Wooden pallets typically consist of three or four beams supporting several slats on which goods can be arranged.However, other designs are also possible, and the technique proposed here can be generally used for any type of electronic palette 90. Therefore, when representing the electronic palette 90 according to... Fig. 2 the structural frame 99 is shown only schematically.

[0027] The electronic pallet 90 also has a locking mechanism 91, fork openings 94, an energy storage device 95 and a control device 96.

[0028] The fork openings 94 are openings in the side walls 97, designed to receive lifting forks of, for example, a forklift truck, i.e., an energy-powered commercial vehicle used for lifting and moving materials over short distances. In other words, the fork openings 94 are designed, for example, to allow lifting forks 31 ( Fig. 3) Access to the pallet in order to lift it. The electronic pallet 90 can have fork openings 94 in one or more of the side walls 97.

[0029] Fig. Figure 3 shows an electronic pallet 90, in particular a EURO pallet, accessible from four sides, viewed from above. In this example, all four sides of the frame 99 have fork openings 94. In other embodiments, the electronic pallet 90 may have fork openings 94 only on its short sides or only on one side. Shafts 98 for the lifting forks extend from the respective fork opening 94 into the interior of the pallet. The shafts 98 for the lifting forks form rails for guiding the lifting forks 31 of the vehicle 1 when lifting the electronic pallet 90. In other words, in some embodiments, the fork openings 94 define the openings of the shafts 98 for the lifting forks.

[0030] The blocking mechanism 91 is now being used with a view to the Fig. 2, 4a-4b and 5a-5b are described in more detail. The locking mechanism 91 is configured for selectively locking and unlocking the fork openings 94. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 91 has pivotable and / or sliding covers 911, which are configured to move between a closed position in which the fork openings 94 are locked and an open position in which the fork openings 94 are open. In the following embodiments, a pivotable cover is designated by reference numeral 911a, while a sliding cover is designated by reference numeral 911b. The covers 911 can completely cover the respective fork openings 94 or they can cover only parts of the fork openings.In the closed position, a fork (fork tine) is prevented from entering the fork opening 94 and, consequently, from lifting and / or moving the electronic pallet 90. In the open position, a fork tine can enter the fork opening 94 to lift and / or move the electronic pallet 90. The locking mechanism 91 can also use any means for selectively blocking or releasing the fork openings 94, such as rods or other locking devices.

[0031] The Fig. 4a and Fig. Figure 4b shows an example of the implementation of a locking mechanism 91 arranged on a fork opening 94. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 91 has a pivotable cover 911a, which is configured to move between a closed position, in which the fork opening 94 is blocked, and an open position, in which the fork opening 94 is released. In this embodiment, the pivotable cover 911a is pivotably attached to the electronic pallet 90 by means of hinges 912. Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b the hinges are arranged on the upper side of the pivoting cover 911a. However, it is understood that the hinges 912 can also be arranged, for example, on the sides of the pivoting cover 911a.

[0032] In Fig. 4a The pivoting cover 911a is in the closed position, thus covering the fork opening 94. The locking mechanism 91 has a locking mechanism 913, which is configured to lock (secure) the pivoting cover 911a in the closed position. The locking mechanism 913 may, for example, include a latch. When the pivoting cover 911a is locked (secured) in the closed position, a fork tine 31 is prevented from entering the fork opening 94, as the locking mechanism 913 prevents the pivoting cover 911a from pivoting.

[0033] In Fig. 4b the pivoting cover 911a is in an open position, in which the pivoting cover 911a is pivoted inwards into the electronic pallet 90. This allows a fork 31 to penetrate into the respective fork opening 94 in order to lift and / or move the electronic pallet 90.

[0034] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b is an actuator 911 (shown here as a steel spring) configured to push the pivoting cover 911a into the closed position. In other words, the actuator 914 is configured to move the pivoting cover 911a from the open position to the closed position. Generally speaking, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism 91 has an actuator 914 configured to move covers between a first position and a second position. The actuator 914 can be implemented by using, for example, a suspension, a coil, and / or an electrical device configured to move covers between the first position and the second position.

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 913 is configured to selectively lock and unlock the pivoting cover 911a in the closed position according to control data provided by the control unit 96, as described in more detail below. When the pivoting cover 911a is unlocked, a fork 31 can push the associated pivoting cover 911a inwards and enter the fork slot 98 to lift the electronic pallet 90. In other words, the pivoting cover 911a can be opened by an object (for example, a fork 31) that pushes the pivoting cover 911a inwards. Conversely, when the pivoting cover 911a is locked, a fork 31 is prevented from opening the pivoting cover 911a and, accordingly, the fork cannot enter the slot 98 for the fork tines.The locking mechanism can also be configured to lock the pivoting covers 911a in the open position. Generally speaking, in some embodiments, the blocking mechanism 91 can include a locking mechanism 913 configured to lock (secure) the covers 911 in the closed position and / or in the open position. The locking mechanism 913 can, for example, be configured with a solenoid and / or a bolt.

[0036] The Fig. 5a and Fig. Figure 5b shows another example of an implementation of the locking mechanism 91. In this example, the locking mechanism 91 has a sliding cover 911b, which is configured to slide vertically between a closed position, in which the fork opening 94 is blocked, and an open position, in which the fork opening 94 is released. In this example, the sliding cover 911b is attached to the electronic pallet 90 by rails (not shown). Alternatively, the sliding cover 911b can also be arranged to slide horizontally.

[0037] In Fig. 5a the sliding cover 911b is in a closed position in which a fork 31 is prevented from entering the associated fork opening 94. Fig. In 5b, the cover 911b is in the open position, in which the sliding cover 911b is shifted upwards so that it no longer covers the fork opening 94. Thus, in the open position, a fork 31 can penetrate the fork opening 94 to lift and / or move the electronic pallet 90. Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b is an actuator 914, e.g., an electromagnet or a motor, configured to move the sliding cover 911b between the closed position and the open position according to control data provided by the control unit 96. The actuator 914 can also serve as a closing mechanism that secures the sliding cover 911b in the closed position.

[0038] With reference to Fig. 2. Further components of the electronic palette 90 will now be described in more detail.

[0039] The energy storage device 95 is designed to supply the various components of the electronic pallet 90, for example the components of the blocking mechanism 91.

[0040] The control unit 96 is configured to control the operation of the electronic pallet 90 and its components. Typically, the electronic pallet 90 is configured to receive data from the locking mechanism 91 and the energy storage device 95, as well as to send data to them. In particular, the control unit 96 is configured to control the locking mechanism 91 for selectively locking and releasing the fork openings 94 according to one or more predefined criteria, which is now being discussed in light of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is described in more detail.

[0041] The proposed technique is now being compared with the flowchart according to Fig. 6 and the electronic range according to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5 with further details described. Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart for a procedure which is carried out by the control device 96 in an electronic pallet 90, the latter being configured to be loaded onto a vehicle 1 as the vehicle 1 according to Fig. 1. The procedure is carried out, for example, when the electronic pallet carries 90 goods, such as when it is transported by a vehicle 1 (i.e., loaded onto such a vehicle) or when it is stored in a warehouse.

[0042] The method is typically implemented with a computer program containing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause it to perform the method. According to some embodiments, the computer program is stored on a computer-readable medium with instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause it to perform the method.

[0043] Since the purpose of blocking the fork openings is typically to prevent an unauthorized user from moving or lifting the electronic pallet, authentication is typically required for the blocking mechanism 91 to block or release the fork openings. Therefore, in some embodiments, the method involves receiving authentication data S0 from an external device. The authentication data can take any suitable form, such as a credential or encrypted access code, thereby authorizing the control device 96.

[0044] The proposed method includes a control S1 of the locking mechanism 91 for selectively locking or unlocking the fork access points depending on one or more predefined criteria. For example, control data is sent to the actuator 914, which controls the actuator 914 to move the cover 911 into an open position. The predefined criteria can include parameters or data received from an external device, such as a forklift, a remote control system, or a user device (e.g., a mobile phone). Alternatively, sensor data received as input data from sensors of the electronic pallet can also be used as predefined criteria. In some embodiments, the time is used as the input signal for the predefined criteria.For example, the fork openings 94 are released at a specific time when loading of the electronic pallet 90 is planned.

[0045] If authentication data has been received in step S0, the control of the blocking mechanism 91 (S1) is carried out based on the received authentication data. In other words, control only occurs if an authorized external device is entitled to control the blocking mechanism. The authentication data can be received, for example, from a forklift, a vehicle 1, a mobile connection, or an off-board system.

[0046] In an example scenario, a forklift approaching the electronic pallet transmits authentication data. The control unit 96 receives the transmitted signal and identifies the forklift as an authorized device. Accordingly, the locking mechanism 91 is controlled to release the fork openings. The electronic pallet 90 can then be moved by the forklift. After 10 minutes, the locking mechanism 91 is automatically controlled to lock its fork openings 94.

[0047] On the other hand, the fork openings 94 are automatically blocked upon detection that the lifting forks have been removed from the fork openings 94. For example, a sensor mechanism (not shown), configured to detect the presence of a fork in the shafts 98 for the lifting forks, receives sensor data indicating that no fork is present in the shafts 98. In other words, in some embodiments, the control S1 includes automatic blocking of the fork openings 94 upon detection that a lifting fork has been removed, or after a predetermined time interval has elapsed following the release of the fork openings 94.

[0048] Fig. Figure 7 shows a control device 96 configured to implement the method proposed herein, with further details. In some embodiments, the control device 96 is a "unit" in the functional sense. Thus, in some embodiments, the control device 96 is a control arrangement with several physical control units that interact together. The control device 96 includes hardware and software. The hardware essentially comprises various electronic components on a printed circuit board (PCB). The most important of these components is typically a processor 961, e.g., a microprocessor, together with a memory 962, e.g., an EPROM or a flash memory chip. The software is typically code written in a low-level programming language that runs in the microcontroller.

[0049] The control unit 96, or in particular the processor 961 of the control unit 96, is configured to cause the control unit 96 to execute all variants of the procedure described above or below. This is typically achieved by executing the computer program code stored in the memory 962 in the processor 961 of the control unit 96. In particular, the control unit 96 is configured to control the locking mechanism 91 for selectively locking or unlocking the fork openings 94 depending on one or more predefined criteria, as in connection with Fig. 6 is described.

[0050] In some embodiments, the control device 96 is configured to control the locking mechanism 91 for automatic locking of the fork openings 94 upon detection that a lifting fork has been removed from the fork openings, or upon elapse of a predetermined time period following the release of the fork openings 94.

[0051] In some embodiments, the control unit 96 includes an interface 963 for wireless communication, and the control unit 96 is configured to receive authentication data using the wireless communication interface 963 and to cause the locking mechanism 91 to control the fork openings 94 according to the authentication data. In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface 963 is configured to receive authentication from a forklift, a mobile connection, or an off-board system.

[0052] In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface 963 includes a first communication interface configured to enable communication with a vehicle 1 into which the electronic pallet 90 is loaded. The first communication interface is implemented, for example, using near-field communication, NFC, Bluetooth, or WiFi. In some embodiments, the control unit 96 is configured to send a deactivation signal to the vehicle via the first communication interface 963a according to a detected distance.

[0053] In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface 963 includes a second communication interface 963b, which is configured to enable communication with an external device, such as an off-board system or a user device, e.g., a mobile phone. The first communication interface is implemented, for example, via 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G, and the control device 96 is configured to send a warning signal using the second communication interface 963b, according to the specified distance. In some embodiments, the second communication interface is integrated into the first communication interface, or it is the same communication interface.

[0054] In some embodiments, this description relates to a vehicle 1 with an electronic pallet 90 according to one of these embodiments.

[0055] The terminology used in the description of the embodiments shown in the accompanying figures is not intended to restrict the described method, nor the control arrangement and the computer program. Various modifications, substitutes, and / or adaptations may be introduced without deviating from embodiments of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0056] The term "or," as used here, is to be understood as a mathematical OR, i.e., as an inclusive relationship, not as a mathematically exclusive OR, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are to be understood as "at least one..." and thus may also include multiple quantities of this type, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, the terms "contains," "exhibits," "containing," and / or "exhibiting" signify the presence of the respective characteristics, measures, quantities, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence of one or more additional characteristics, measures, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.A single unit, such as a processor, can perform the functions of several elements mentioned in the patent claims.

Claims

[1] Electronic pallet (90) designed to be loaded onto a vehicle (1), the electronic pallet (90) comprising: - Fork openings (94) designed to receive forks (31), - a blocking mechanism (91) configured to selectively block and release the fork openings (94), and - a control device (96) configured to control the locking mechanism (91) for selectively locking and releasing the fork openings (94) based on one or more predefined criteria. [2] Electronic pallet (90) according to claim 1, wherein the electronic pallet (90) comprises: - an interface (963) for wireless communication and wherein the control device (96) is configured to receive authentication data using the interface (963) for wireless communication and to cause the blocking mechanism (91) to control the fork openings (94) on the basis of the authentication data. [3] Electronic pallet (90) according to claim 2, wherein the interface (963) is configured for wireless communication to receive authentication from a forklift, a mobile connection or an off-board system. [4] Electronic pallet (90) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (96) is configured to control the blocking mechanism (91) for automatically blocking the fork openings (94) upon detection that a lifting fork has been removed from the fork openings or upon elapse of a predetermined time period after the fork openings (94) have been released. [5] Electronic pallet (90) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking mechanism (91) has a pivotable and / or sliding cover (911) which is configured to be moved between a closed position in which the fork openings (94) are blocked and an open position in which the fork openings (94) are released. [6] Electronic pallet (90) according to claim 5, wherein the locking mechanism (91) has an actuator (914) configured to move the covers between the first position and the second position. [7] Electronic pallet (90) according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the blocking mechanism (91) has a locking mechanism (913) which is configured to lock the covers in the closed position and / or in the open position. [8] Method carried out by a control device (96) in an electronic pallet (90) which is configured to be loaded onto a vehicle (1) and which has fork openings (94) configured to receive forks (31) and with a locking mechanism (91) configured to selectively lock and release the fork openings (94), wherein the method comprises: - a control (S1) of the blocking mechanism (91) for selectively blocking and releasing the fork openings based on one or more predefined criteria. [9] Method according to claim 8, comprising: - Receiving (S0) authentication data, wherein the control (S1) of the blocking mechanism (91) is based on the received authentication data. [10] Method according to claim 9, comprising receiving the authentication data from a forklift, from a mobile connection or from a system not located on board. [11] Method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the control (S1) includes an automatic blocking of the fork openings (94) upon detection that a lifting fork has been removed, or upon elapse of a predetermined time period after the fork openings (94) have been released. [12] Computer program with instructions which, when the program is executed in a computer, cause it to execute a method according to one of claims 8 to 11. [13] Computer-readable storage medium with instructions which, when executed in a computer, cause it to execute a method according to any one of claims 8 to 11.

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