METHOD AND TRANSFER DEVICE FOR TRANSFERRING GOODS

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a transfer device for transferring goods objects. Presentation of the state of the art

[0002] Systems are known in the prior art which make it possible to deliver a large number of goods contained in parcels to a large number of recipients or to receive parcels from a large number of senders.

[0003] There is a great need to reduce the resulting ecological footprint.

[0004] Known solutions aim to improve transport and delivery logistics, for example, through the use of electronic parcel locker systems for parcel delivery. For example, US 2020 / 0361711 describes an automated, temperature-controlled outdoor terminal for the storage and delivery of online grocery orders.

[0005] Other known solutions aim at the use of reusable containers for parcel shipping. So far, these solutions have failed because they have not been able to establish a closed loop for reusable containers from senders to recipients. This is where the invention described below comes in. Brief description of the invention

[0006] The invention is based on the object of providing a method for handing over goods objects so that goods objects can be handed over with the smallest possible ecological footprint.

[0007] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for transferring packages according to claim 1.

[0008] Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Description of the invention

[0009] According to the invention, a method is provided for transferring a plurality of goods objects to a plurality of recipients, wherein the goods objects are stored and / or transported in packages and are transferred to a depot facility and then stored in the depot facility.

[0010] The invention is characterized in that, in at least some of the packages, at least one item of goods located in the package is made available to a recipient for removal, so that a transfer of the item of goods is carried out as a transfer process, but a transfer of the package is prevented, so that the package which is not transferred to the recipient of the item of goods remains in the depot facility, that the package is filled with at least one further item of goods after the transfer process and is used for a further transfer process for the further item of goods to a further recipient.

[0011] The invention provides that, after the goods have been removed from the depot facility, at least individual packages are reloaded with at least one additional goods item. According to the invention, the package loaded with the additional goods item is used in the depot facility for a transfer process for the additional goods item.

[0012] It is also advantageous to forward at least some of the parcels without immediate refilling within the depot facility. In this case, the parcel is transported to a consignor of additional goods and / or to a picking facility. After reaching the consignor or the picking facility, the parcels are expediently refilled with goods and delivered to the logistics system as new parcels.

[0013] Goods objects are physical objects that can be physically influenced by the logistics system or a component of the logistics system and which are then transferred to physical access by another entity. The other entity can be a recipient of the goods or a physical facility designed to exercise physical influence on behalf of the recipient. In various embodiments of the invention, for example in embodiments of the depot facilities presented in this application as sales facilities, it is expedient for the transfer of physical availability via the goods object to occur once the recipient has previously purchased the goods object. Goods objects can include everyday items such as consumables or food, as well as technical items and equipment.

[0014] Unless packages are expressly referred to as data packages or virtual packages in this application, the packages presented in this application are physical packages. Packages within the meaning of the invention are objects in which goods are stored and / or transported. Goods contained in individual packages can be items of daily use such as consumables or food, as well as technical items and equipment. Preferably, several of the goods are unpackaged items, packaged items, and repackaged items, whereby in the case of packaged and repackaged items, the package comprises the packaging or outer packaging and the item packaged therein.In at least some of the goods objects presented in this application, the goods objects themselves are not packages, but rather they are objects that are placed in packages, with some of the packages being designed as reusable containers.

[0015] At least some of these packages are therefore designed in such a way that the package itself is not a commodity, but rather that the package is designed to represent outer packaging for the commodity, and the commodity can be removed from the package. These outer packagings, referred to as reusable containers, are packages within the meaning of the application, both with and without contents.

[0016] According to the invention, the object underlying the invention is further achieved in that a transfer device for transferring goods objects located in packages is designed in such a way that, for at least some of the packages, at least one goods object located in the package can be made available to a recipient for removal, so that a transfer of the goods object can be carried out as a transfer process, and in that the transfer device contains a means which can prevent a transfer of the package.

[0017] According to the invention, the transfer device is arranged in the area of the depot facility.

[0018] The depot facilities described in this application are preferably configured as mobile depot facilities. However, the invention is not limited to mobile depot facilities. Depot facilities within the meaning of the present invention are all facilities that contain a means for storing the parcels, in particular within a designated handover period, and at least one means for handing over the parcels. These are preferably locker-like depot facilities that combine secure, reliable storage of the parcels that is protected from external influences with a handover device that reliably reacts to a received dispensing request and is designed to hand over the parcels, in particular during a designated handover period. The storage of the parcels that is protected from external influences preferably includes preventing personal access to the parcels.The depot facilities thus include a storage room that, during normal operation, is preferably accessible for the parcels through a goods lock. In particular, the depot facilities contain means for protecting the parcels from unauthorized removal. Transfer facilities within the meaning of this application may also include the storage compartments themselves, provided they are equipped with a door that can only be opened after a release process has been performed.

[0019] The invention further provides for a method for transferring a plurality of goods objects to a plurality of recipients, wherein the goods objects are stored and / or transported in packages, in such a way that, for at least some of the packages, at least one goods object located in the package is made available to a recipient for removal, so that a transfer of the goods object is carried out as the first transfer process, that at least individual packages are designed as reusable containers which are provided with individual identifiers and that package identification codes are assigned to the reusable containers depending on further information.

[0020] The invention is characterized in that a first parcel identification code is assigned to the reusable container marked with the individual identifier until a goods object located therein is first handed over to a first recipient, and in that a new parcel identification code is assigned to the reusable container provided with the individual identifier after it has been filled with at least one further goods object, in particular in such a way that the reusable container is processed by a logistics system as a further parcel without the reusable container having to be marked again for further processing operations within the logistics system.

[0021] The invention provides that the reusable containers are provided with individual identifiers and that package identification codes are assigned to the reusable containers depending on further information.

[0022] This means, for example, that a reusable container with an individual identifier is assigned a first parcel identification code until a goods object contained therein is first handed over to a first recipient, and that a new parcel identification code is assigned to the reusable container provided with the individual identifier after it has been filled with at least one further goods object.

[0023] This makes it possible to use reusable containers as packages without having to re-label the reusable containers for further processing within the logistics system.

[0024] The use of the identifier is advantageous in all embodiments of the invention.

[0025] There are numerous ways to link the reusable container with the unique identifier to a parcel identification code. According to the invention, the reusable container provided with the identifier is provided with a first parcel identification code until a first transfer process, and that processing operations of the reusable container as a parcel initially take place taking into account the first parcel identification code.

[0026] According to the invention, the identifier is transmitted as information about a parcel identification feature or directly as a parcel identification feature to a control component of the logistics system. The control component receives both the information about the parcel identification features and the recipients of the respective parcels, in particular from an ordering system.

[0027] After the transfer of at least one goods object contained in the reusable container, the previously established link between the reusable container having the identifier and the parcel identification code is removed, preferably by the control component of the logistics system.

[0028] By removing the association between the reusable container marked with the identifier and the parcel identification code, it is possible to link the reusable container with a second parcel identification code.

[0029] As soon as the reusable container is linked to a new parcel identification code, the further processing operations of the reusable container are carried out as a new parcel, taking into account the second parcel identification code, in particular without any consideration of the first parcel identification code.

[0030] The invention is characterized in that the package is handled up to the handover process taking into account a first recipient attribute and that further handling of the package after the first handover process and / or after the package has been reloaded with another goods object taking into account a second recipient attribute.

[0031] In this application, the term "first handover process" is used. This means, in particular, the handover of a first item of goods to a recipient.

[0032] Following the initial transfer, the package, designed as a reusable container, is used for the transfer of additional goods. These transfers are referred to as subsequent transfers.

[0033] The invention provides that the first handover process takes place taking into account a first recipient attribute and that the further handling of the parcel after the first handover process and / or after loading the parcel with another goods object takes into account a second recipient attribute.

[0034] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that in at least one of the handover processes, a decision process takes place as to whether a parcel belongs to the part of the parcels in which at least one object of goods located in the parcel is made available to a recipient for removal, but handover of the parcel is prevented so that the parcel is not handed over to the recipient, or whether the parcel belongs to a further part of parcels that are handed over to the respective recipient in the handover process.

[0035] Parcels handed over to a recipient during one of the handover processes are preferably handed over together with the goods contained within. This can be done, for example, analogously to conventional parcel handovers, preferably with the parcels being handed over unopened.

[0036] An expedient further development of the invention is characterized in that the decision process as to whether a parcel belongs to the part of the parcels in which at least one object of goods located in the parcel is made available to a recipient for removal, but a handover of the parcel is prevented so that the parcel is not handed over to the recipient, or whether the parcel belongs to a further part of parcels that are handed over to the respective recipient in the handover process, takes place depending on at least one property of the parcel.

[0037] The decision-making process preferably takes into account at least one of the following characteristics of the package: Reusability of the package; openness of the package, in particular design as a container open at the top; possibility of opening the package; resealability of the package; labelling of the package.

[0038] An expedient further development of the invention is characterized in that the decision-making process takes place as a function of an instruction from the sender and / or as a function of an instruction from the recipient of the package.

[0039] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the decision process is carried out depending on the payment of any fee for handing over the package to the recipient.

[0040] The depot facility used is preferably provided at a common, optimized handover point, at least within a handover period. In this application, the term "common, optimized handover point" is chosen for a geographically precisely definable location that is particularly well-suited for the handover of multiple parcels. Because of the possibility of handing over multiple parcels, this handover point is referred to as a common handover point. The additional characterization as an optimized handover point means that the location is particularly suitable for the handover of parcels. In particular, this is a handover point that has been optimized using one of the selection methods presented in this application.In particular, common optimized handover points are locations that are suitable for handing over as many packages as possible, while minimizing the effort required by the respective recipients of the packages.

[0041] Preferably, at least some of the packages are transferred to the common, optimized transfer points described in this application. However, the advantageous package processing operations and package processing systems disclosed in this application are not limited to package processing embodiments in which packages are transferred to common, optimized transfer points.

[0042] The selection of joint optimized handover points is carried out not only by taking into account a cost parameter for the respective recipient and / or consignor, but also by taking into account cost parameters for other recipients and / or consignors. List of figures

[0043] Further advantages and preferred developments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the figures. Figure 1 shows a flowchart of the method according to the invention for explaining the sequence of processes taking place using a depot facility. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of a base plate of a holding device, as can be used in a transfer device. Figure 3 shows another embodiment of a base plate of a holding device, as can be used in a transfer device. Figure 4 shows another embodiment of a base plate of a holding device, as can be used in a transfer device. Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a logistics system. Figure 6 shows a top view of a horizontal cross-sectional plane of a depot facility with at least two shelves.Figure 7a shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf; Figure 7b shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf; Figure 7c shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf; Figure 7d shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a transport unit; Figure 9 shows a top view of a transport unit; Figure 10 shows an exemplary embodiment of a storage unit. Figure 11 shows an exemplary embodiment of a storage unit. Figure 12 shows, in Figures 12a and 12b, a transport unit which can also be used as a transfer unit, and in Figures 12c and 12d, a schematic diagram of a transfer of a package 1698 in a region of a transfer device; Figure 13 shows a package from the prior art which is particularly preferred for the transfer. Explanation of the illustrations Introduction

[0044] The present invention is part of a concept of how a large number of goods objects can be handed over to a large number of recipients with the smallest possible ecological footprint.

[0045] Description Fig. 1 to 4 : Figure 1shows an explanation of the processes taking place using a depot facility. The sequence of process steps and queries presented here is not intended to limit the method according to the invention, but is only one of many conceivable embodiments of the method. The depot facility is initially in idle state 001. A recipient who wishes to receive their goods and / or parcel submits a request 014, for example via an APP, which is transmitted to the depot facility. This prompts the depot facility to obtain information about the parcel using a parcel identification feature. This information includes whether the parcel is a reusable container. If the response to this query 003 is positive, a next query 004 checks whether a fee has been paid for taking the reusable container. The fee can be paid by the recipient, e.g.via an app or by the sender. If the fee has not been paid, the transfer device is instructed to hold the package, which is preferably designed as a reusable container, after transport 015 to the transfer device during the handover of the goods object 005 and, if necessary, to transport it to a storage facility at the depot facility.

[0046] The parcel can be handed over to the recipient of the goods depending on one or more inspection procedures.

[0047] The verification procedures include, for example, checking whether and, if so, which instructions from the sender and / or the recipient exist regarding the handover of the parcel itself. In particular, it can be checked whether the recipient of the goods has paid a fee for the transfer not only of the goods but also of the parcel, or whether they are willing to pay a fee for this.

[0048] The inspection processes can, if necessary, take place at different times, with an advantageous embodiment providing for an inspection process to only take place while the goods are being made available for collection. A possible inspection process during the preparation of the goods for collection is, for example, whether the recipient of the goods pays a fee for the release of the package during the preparation of the goods or transmits information indicating that they are willing to pay the fee.

[0049] One embodiment provides that the recipient can pay the fee retrospectively even after viewing the goods, and that the parcel is then no longer held back. It is possible that the lid of the parcel designed as a reusable container has already been removed by the depot facility and the goods are made available to the recipient in the handover device. It is also conceivable that the lid of the reusable container is designed as a type of disposable lid, and that the recipient now removes this lid in the handover device to gain access to their goods. During the presentation of the goods, the recipient can be given the opportunity to determine whether their goods are undamaged and can be offered the option, for example via an app, of returning the parcel on the spot (query 006).As long as the return option is not selected, or if this option is not implemented, the depot facility waits until the goods object has been removed (008). It may be advantageous to ask the recipient via the app whether they agree that the package can now be stored in the depot facility (query (007). If the recipient does not respond within a predefined period of time after the goods object has been removed, or if they give their consent via the app that the package can now be stored, the depot facility takes the package back and stores it (009). The depot facility then returns to its initial state, the IDLE state (001).

[0050] If the parcel is not a reusable container but a cardboard box or other outer packaging intended for single use, the parcel will not be held during handover 010. It can be advantageous to ask the recipient before the handover process, for example via an app, whether they would like to take their outer packaging with them or whether it should be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner for a fee of, for example, 0.30 cents. A check is either carried out at regular intervals to determine whether the parcel or the goods have been removed (query 011), or after a defined time window (e.g. 15 seconds) it is automatically assumed that the parcel or the goods have been removed. When the parcel is removed, the depot facility returns to its initial state 001 and waits for an instruction.If a recipient leaves their outer packaging in the transfer device without having previously selected this option and the outer packaging is not intended for further use, the recipient will be asked via the app whether they want to pay for the disposal of the outer packaging, for example, for 30 cents (query 012), or whether they would like to take it with them. If the recipient answers this question negatively, a period of time is waited 013 during which they can collect the parcel. If the recipient then fails to collect their parcel within this time period, they will be charged the 30 cents, the parcel will be stored 018, and the depot facility will return to its initial state 001.

[0051] It is particularly preferable that the proportion of parcels be reusable containers. By retaining or requiring a deposit on reusable containers, the cycle of reusable containers from sender to recipient and back is closed, and the proportion of returned reusable containers used for further delivery processes is as high as possible (e.g., > 90%), thus establishing a cost-efficient and ecologically sound cycle.

[0052] Figures 2 to 4 show holding devices that can be used in the transfer device. Figure 2, a base plate 023 of the transfer device, onto which a package is placed using the transport unit of the depot device. The base plate 023 has holes 016 into which, for example, bellows suction cups or the flat suction cups shown here are embedded. When a valve 022 leading to a vacuum pump 021 is opened by a control unit 019 of the depot device, the suction cups use the negative pressure to bring themselves into firm contact with the base of a package located above them. To release these suction cups, they can, for example, be pressurized so that no damage occurs to the reusable container when it is to be released from the suction cups. The connection of the lines 020 shown here is only one possible design of this holding device. It is also conceivable to create an alternative connection of the suction cups to the vacuum pump 021, for example a parallel connection.

[0053] Figure 3shows, by way of example, an alternative holding device in which a taper in the opening of the transfer device 027 facing the recipient prevents the package 026 from being removed by sliding two walls 025 acting as doors closed according to the size of the package. The remaining opening is selected such that the recipient can remove his or her goods, but not the package 026 itself. This type of holding device is particularly useful, due to its simplicity, for those packages 026 that are designed as reusable containers and do not fall below a certain minimum size.

[0054] Another in Figure 4The holding device shown uses tabs 029 that may be provided on the packages 026, which can be engaged by means of hooks 028, for example, installed in the base plate 023. The hooks 028 are recessed into the base plate 023 when the package is lying down and, when the holding device is activated, are inserted into the tabs 029 at the appropriate position depending on the size of the package. This prevents removal of the package 026, but not of the goods contained therein. The hooks 028 in this holding device are not necessarily accommodated in the base plate 023, but can be attached in other areas of the transfer device 027 not shown here. Overview of logistics system and logistics processes Parcel identification feature

[0055] In the present application, identical, in particular consistent, package identification features and / or package identification features that differ from other package identification features can be used to identify a package.

[0056] Unless packages are expressly referred to as data packages or virtual packages in the present application, packages within the meaning of the present invention are always physical objects, in particular with consistent physical properties, in particular weight and dimensions. It is thus possible to ensure, while the package is in a logistics system according to the invention, that it is a specific package. Different packages generally differ in at least one physical property and can be differentiated from one another by measuring this physical property. These physical properties can therefore be used as package identification features in an advantageous development of the invention.

[0057] The parcel identification feature can, for example, also be a parcel identification code that uniquely identifies a parcel. Such a parcel identification code is, for example, applied to a parcel before it is handed over to a logistics system or a unit of the logistics system, for example, one of the acceptance units described in this application, such as the depot facilities described, or the parcel identification code is applied to the parcel upon delivery to the logistics system or during one of the processing operations within the logistics system.

[0058] The invention also encompasses embodiments in which at least individual packages, or as many packages as possible, are designed as reusable containers. According to the invention, all reusable containers are provided with an individual, permanently identical identifier, with package identification codes being assigned to the reusable containers depending on additional information.

[0059] The invention also encompasses embodiments in which the package identification code is a physical code that is applied, for example, to the package, an outer packaging of the package or to a storage unit for the package and / or a transport unit for the package and / or embodiments in which the package identification code is a digital code that is assigned to the package and / or a digital twin of the package.

[0060] If individual, several, many or even all parcels are designed as reusable containers marked with individual identifiers, digital codes can be used as parcel identification codes.

[0061] The use of digital codes as package identification codes is advantageous in all embodiments of the invention, whereby the use of digital codes in connection with digital twins is particularly advantageous.

[0062] It is advantageous if the respective digital twin of one of the packages, preferably of several packages, even more advantageously of as many packages as possible, contains at least one package identification feature. In advantageous embodiments in which the package is linked to a package identification code, it is advantageous for the digital twin of the package to contain the package identification code.

[0063] It is advisable to integrate at least one, preferably several, and even more advantageously as much information as possible into the digital twin of a package.

[0064] It is particularly advantageous to use package identification features that are particularly easy to determine. This allows the identity of a package to be determined more quickly and / or with less effort.

[0065] A preferred embodiment of a package handling system according to the invention provides for assigning and / or recording a package identification code and subsequently storing it as the primary package identification feature. At least one further, more easily and / or quickly identifiable feature of the package is expediently used as a secondary package identification feature, in particular for checking the accuracy of the primary package identification feature and / or for controlling a further processing operation. Examples of package identification features that can be determined more quickly and / or with less effort are the weight and / or dimensions of a package.

[0066] Both the primary package identification feature and the secondary package identification feature can be package identification features within the meaning of the present invention, wherein it is particularly advantageous to carry out processing operations, in particular processing operations of packages, using one of these package identification features.

[0067] A subsequent processing operation of the parcel can then be carried out based on the determination of the other parcel identification feature. For this purpose, it is advantageous, for example, to equip conveyor belts of transfer systems with cameras for recording parcel dimensions and / or with a scale, and / or to equip transport units with a scale.

[0068] For example, it is determined that a parcel with a primary parcel identification feature in the form of a parcel identification code 123456789 has a weight of 5015.6 g. Subsequently, a measured weight of 5015.6 g + / - 0.2 g can be used as a secondary parcel identification feature. The weight measurement thus represents, for example, the determination of an easier and / or faster identifiable secondary parcel identification feature, which verifies the accuracy that this is the parcel with the parcel identification code 123456789 and / or can be used for further processing instead of the parcel identification code. By checking the accuracy and linking it to a digital image of the parcel, in particular its digital twin, the parcel is reliably identified.

[0069] The parcel with the parcel identification code 123456789 can already be assigned to a recipient and / or a handover point upon delivery into the logistics system, in particular to a common, optimized handover point for the delivery of multiple parcels to multiple recipients and / or from multiple consignors. However, it is also advantageous to change the assignment to the recipient and / or handover point for at least one of the parcels between delivery and handover to a recipient of the parcel.

[0070] This general principle can be implemented according to the invention in various processing operations, for example, within one of the distribution centers according to the invention, in particular a sorting center, and / or also for storing parcels in depot facilities according to the invention. For example, the parcel identification code of a parcel can first be determined, and then one or more processing operations can take place. Considering a parcel identification feature is advantageous for individual, several, or all processing operations.

[0071] For example, it is possible to first determine a parcel identification code and thereby reliably identify the parcel. Preferably, the parcel identification code is linked as a parcel identification feature to at least one other parcel identification feature, for example, a weight and / or a dimension of the parcel. An image of the parcel can also be used as a parcel identification feature. This is particularly advantageous when goods are processed as parcels.

[0072] An advantageous development of the invention provides that machine-readable data is assigned to the packages, wherein the data comprises at least one identifier with which the respective package can be identified, in particular uniquely identified. At least one of the package identification features presented in this application is expediently used as an identifier for the respective package.

[0073] It is particularly advantageous to define a parcel identification code, for example digitally and / or by providing a parcel with a barcode or matrix code containing the parcel identification code or an RFID chip containing the parcel identification code or to determine an already defined parcel identification code, for example by means of a 6-sided scanner or an RFID reader.

[0074] After the parcel identification code has been determined and / or determined, a controlled and / or measured transport and / or sorting route for the parcel can be planned and / or tracked – for example, by incorporating a digital twin for the parcel – so that subsequent processing of the parcel, in particular sorting of the parcel and / or transport of the parcel, can be carried out as precisely as is the case with determining the parcel identification code itself, based on a combination of the previously determined parcel identification code with the determination of another, preferably easier and / or faster measurable, parcel identification feature. This ensures that the parcel is reliably identified even with a faster and / or less complex determination of a parcel identification feature.

[0075] It is possible to supplement processing operations by providing process protocols, advantageously including individual process protocols for individual packages, and / or to use the provided process protocols to control processing operations. The use of individual process protocols for individual packages has the advantage of enabling the implementation of real-time applications and / or facilitating the link between individual packages and their respective digital twins.

[0076] An implementation of the assignment of packages to senders and / or recipients is carried out, for example, by the links presented in this application and / or the likewise presented provision of process protocols, advantageously including individual process protocols for individual packages, so that in particular a link between individual packages and their respective digital twins is facilitated.

[0077] The information about the package identification feature is transmitted to a control component 5012. In the illustrated case, the control component 5012 receives both the information about the package identification features and the recipients of the respective packages from the ordering system 5010. Figure 5 Introduction

[0078] In Figure 5 A logistics system 5020 with an associated ordering system 5010 is shown.

[0079] An operator of a logistics system according to the invention can be both a provider of an ordering system, in particular a retailer, and a logistics system. Conversely, a retailer can also offer logistics services in addition to its ordering system.

[0080] The invention presented in this application can be integrated into eProcurement applications and eCommerce applications.

[0081] The central task of a logistics system operator is to deliver the correct package to the correct, authorized recipient. To fulfill this task, it is necessary to ensure the unique identification of a package and its corresponding unique recipient.

[0082] Each package / each commodity object preferably has a reliable identifier as a package identification feature, for example an EAN code in the case of a commodity object, an ISBN number in the case of a book, and a package identification number in the case of a repackaged package.

[0083] In order to correctly identify the recipient, unique characteristics such as email address or mobile phone number are preferred in addition to name and home address.

[0084] For example, the Figure 5 Logistics system 5020 shown in line 5100 shows processing operations for packages; lines 5200 show suitable processing units for handling the packages; and lines 5300 show preferred embodiments of the processing units shown in lines 5200.

[0085] The processing operations and the processing units used can be combined with each other, with the most comprehensive combinations being particularly advantageous.

[0086] When combining individual processing operations and processing units, it is particularly expedient to provide and use the processing units shown only where this is advantageous for the further processing of the parcels. For example, if the parcels are already handed over individually, measures to separate the parcels are not necessary. Likewise, recording of parcel identification features may be omitted if the identity of the parcel is already known from one or more of the previous processing operations.

[0087] If, for example, a package identification code of a package has already been determined, it is not necessary to determine the package identification code again, but instead it is equally possible and in many embodiments more advantageous to carry out a subsequent identification of the package using another package identification feature that can be determined more quickly and / or with less effort.

[0088] A subsequent processing operation of the package can then be carried out based on the determination of the other package identification feature.

[0089] In addition to the components usually used in the environment of an operator of a logistics system, it is advantageous to use one, several, as many as possible or, particularly preferably, even all of the additional components listed in lines 5300. Ordering system 5010

[0090] The ordering system 5010 is understood to be a system for ordering deliveries and / or collections of parcels.

[0091] For example, the ordering system is a computer network with link interfaces for interacting with a large number of users.

[0092] An ordering system is a system with means for the electronic procurement of goods using a network, such as the Internet or other information and communication systems. These systems can be used by companies or organizations, as well as by private individuals.

[0093] Preferably, secure access to extranets or intranets is used for order orders, in particular VPNs (virtual private networks), which are particularly secure and not accessible to third parties. Logistics system 5020

[0094] The logistics system used in conjunction with the method according to the invention advantageously relates to both "forward logistics" (from the mail order company or private sender to the recipient) and "backward logistics" (from the recipient or private sender back to the mail order company or another recipient).

[0095] The logistics system 5020 is configured, for example, to interact with one or more ordering systems 5010. These can be links in which the ordering system is embedded in the logistics system, but also links in which the logistics system 5020 receives handling orders for the packages from the ordering system 5010.

[0096] A preferred variant is that the ordering system 5010 and the logistics system 5020 are linked in real time.

[0097] In this case in particular, the ordering system 5010 provides an input device for entering one or more desired handover points for the handover of a parcel to a recipient of that parcel. Using this information, as well as the information required to identify the parcel and recipient, the logistics system 5020 ensures that the parcel is directed to the authorized recipient.

[0098] It is also possible to operate the illustrated logistics system 5020 independently of an ordering system 5010. The information on the package identification feature is then transmitted from a separate ordering system—that of a third party—to the logistics system 5020. In the illustrated case, the logistics system 5020 receives both the information on the package identification features and a unique identification feature for the recipients of the respective packages—for example, an email address or mobile phone number. Link interface 5015

[0099] As shown, the method according to the invention works with several ordering systems and / or ordering components, so that the illustrated ordering system 5010 is merely an example.

[0100] In a first advantageous embodiment of the invention, a logistics system 5020 known per se and an ordering system 5010 known per se are first linked to one another by the linking interface 5015.

[0101] The link is implemented by at least one link interface 5015.

[0102] The linking interface 5015 is designed, for example, so that instructions for handling the packets and / or for assigning the packets can be transmitted to recipients.

[0103] Advantageously, the linking interface 5015 is further developed so that assignments of packets to transfer points and / or receivers can be changed.

[0104] By using the linking interface 5015, it is possible to assign a package to a sender and / or a recipient even if sender identification features and / or recipient identification features are omitted. Control component 5012 of the logistics system

[0105] The control component 5012 of the logistics system 5020 can be configured to control as many or even all of the parcel processing operations as possible. However, it is equally possible for the control component 5012 to control only individual process steps described in this application.

[0106] Details of preferred embodiments of the control component for carrying out the method according to the invention are presented below.

[0107] As previously described, the control component 5012 of the logistics system 5020 can be configured such that the control component 5012 controls as many or even all of the parcel processing operations as possible. However, it is equally possible for the control component 5012 to control only individual process steps described in this application. Information obtained from as many, if necessary even all, of the following components is used: 5022: User app for recording and managing user data as well as a communication interface and control element of a depot facility 5023: User database of the user app 5024: Network configuration module, in particular with a database for potential locations of mobile depot facilities; 5025: Network configuration tool for mobile depot facilities; 5026: Control module for transporting mobile depot facilities; 5027: Notification component; Location information for determining the locations and / or storage positions of the packages.

[0108] The following statements refer to the previously discussed Figure 5 shown control component 5012 as well as to further control components that may be separate from the control component 5012 shown there. However, the control components shown below can also be operated independently of the control component 5012 and are not intended for control by the Figure 5 shown control component 5012.

[0109] While packages in the prior art have to be provided with labels that have to be created separately, which is a complex process, the invention makes it possible to handle any physical object - provided that the dimensions and / or weights to be taken into account for the respective processing operations are observed - in particular by one or more of the following processing operations: Delivery; picking; sorting; transport; handover.

[0110] State-of-the-art packages and state-of-the-art goods - as exemplified in Figure 13 The package shown - can also be handled as packages according to the invention, including the processing operations shown.

[0111] Furthermore, it is possible that additional information can be assigned to the packages as machine-readable data, particularly through the use of digital twins. Examples of additional information include dimensions, in particular the volume of the package and / or the weight of the package, due date / time, penalties for late delivery, delivery costs, sender and recipient information, material, fragility, and parameters for the required transport of the package, e.g., a refrigerated truck for goods that require refrigeration.

[0112] It is useful to add logging functionality to the control components. User APP 5021, 5022

[0113] The reference numbers 5021, 5022 specifically designate a user app for recording and managing user data as well as a communication interface and control element of a depot facility. User database 5023 of the user app

[0114] The user database 5023 serves as the backend system of the user app. Network configuration module 5024 and network configuration tool 5025

[0115] Reference numeral 5024 denotes in particular a network configuration module, preferably with a database for potential locations of mobile depot facilities. Control module for transporting mobile depot equipment 5026

[0116] The control module 5026 controls the transport of the mobile depot equipment. Notification component 5027

[0117] Notification components 5027 can be used as in existing logistics systems. Processing operations of packages 5100

[0118] In the logistics system 5020, the processing operations shown in line 5100 follow one another. It is particularly advantageous to perform several, in particular many, of the processing operations shown in line 5100, but it is not necessary to perform all of the processing operations shown in line 5100.

[0119] Package handling includes one, several or all of the following processing operations of a package: Acceptance of the parcel, for example by delivery, in particular by a depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322; transport of the parcel between the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 and a deliverer and / or a recipient of the parcel, in particular by a transfer unit; transport of the parcel within the depot facility, in particular between a transfer facility and storage positions of a storage facility of the depot facility; transport of the parcel from a depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 to another depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322; Transporting the parcel between the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 and a transfer facility 5130, 5336; Transporting the parcel within the transfer facility 5130, 5336; Sorting the parcel within the transfer facility 5130, 5336; Transporting the parcel between the transfer facility 5130, 5336 and a parcel distribution center 5301;Sorting of the parcel within the parcel distribution center (parcel distribution center) Transport of the parcel between two distribution centers. ; Parcel processing in distribution centers 5110

[0120] In particular, column 5110 contains processing operations and processing units, in particular with means for sorting parcels in the area of distribution centres.

[0121] The following describes configurations of main runs and sorting processes 5110. The control component 5012 of the logistics system 5020 forwards information about package identification features that enable identification of the packages, as well as information about the intended transfer points, to network nodes of the logistics system.

[0122] The control component 5012 of the logistics system, or the logistics system 5020, receives information on parcel identification features that enable identification of the parcels, preferably from several information sources, for example, when the parcels are delivered by a recording means, by identification devices such as scanners and RFID readers in the area of distribution centers, in the area of transfer devices 5130, 5336.

[0123] The control component 5012 of the logistics system, or the logistics system 5020, preferably forwards information on package identification features that enable package identification, as well as information on the intended handover points, to transfer facilities 5130, 5336 and / or depot facilities. Forwarding the information on the package identification features to both the transfer facilities 5130, 5336 and the depot facilities has the advantage that the packages can be stored quickly and reliably in storage positions of a storage facility in the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. A further advantage of this expedient embodiment is that the storage in the storage positions of the storage facility of the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 can take place without the use of sensor devices or other detection means in the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322.

[0124] Network nodes of the logistics system are, in particular, components of the logistics system where decisions regarding parcel processing operations are implemented. These include, for example, sorting operations 5110, which preferably take place in parcel distribution centers 5301. Examples of network nodes of the logistics system are preferably transfer facilities 5130, 5336, transport units 5236, and depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322.

[0125] The packet identification features are transmitted in such a way that the respective network nodes include the packets in the further transport process, taking into account the selected transfer points. Distribution center 5301 and delivery depot 5302

[0126] It is advantageous to use a two- or multi-stage logistics system, in which parcels are first transported to a distribution center, then from one distribution center to another, and then from the other distribution center to delivery depots. The following processing operations, for example, take place: Selection of a distribution center 5301 that is particularly suitable for further distribution of the packages by loading depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322; Initiation of transport to the distribution center 5301 and / or to the delivery depot 5302; Initiation of transport to the depot facility; Discharge of the packages in the area of a distribution center 5301 or delivery depot 5302 Selection of transfer points 5120

[0127] The processing operations and processing units shown in column 5120 Means for selecting delivery points of parcels using depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. Depot facilities 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322

[0128] Depository facilities 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 may be depository facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 as described in the Figure 6 is shown, however, the logistics system is not limited to applications with depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 and even when using depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322, these can be designed differently than shown as examples in these figures.

[0129] In one embodiment, the depot facilities 5242 may include a flexible adaptation of at least one storage unit 1410.

[0130] The packages stored in a depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 are transported to the transfer points in the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322.

[0131] The depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 includes a transfer facility for the packages as part of the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. Loading preparation of depot facilities 5130

[0132] The processing operations and processing units shown in column 5130 contain means and process steps 5233, 5331-5336 for preparing the depot facilities for loading, in particular in the area of transfer facilities 5130, 5336.

[0133] The processing operation 5130 includes individual, several or even all of the processing operations for the packages shown below: Transfer of parcels from a distribution center; separation of parcels; transport of parcels from a distribution center to the depot facilities; transport of parcels from one or more first depot facilities to one or more second depot facilities; preparation for the storage of parcels in the depot facilities 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 as shown in column 5140.

[0134] The processing operations and processing units shown in column 5130 promote a transfer of parcels to depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. These are, in particular, processing operations in which several parcels are transported, preferably directly one after the other, to depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 and then preferably stored in depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. The storage of the parcels in depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 preferably takes place by storing the parcels in storage positions of storage facilities of depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322.

[0135] In order to store the parcels in the depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 as quickly as possible and / or to remove parcels from the depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 as quickly and reliably as possible, it is advisable to use transfer facilities, which are shown as examples in Figures 6, 8 and 12. Transfer facility 5336

[0136] Another processing module, which is controlled by control component 5012 of the logistics system, or the logistics system 5020, is a sorting module 5130, 5336 within the distribution center, which preferably also serves to divert the packages to the depot facilities 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322. Loading of depot facilities 5140

[0137] The processing operations and processing units shown in column 5140 include means for loading the depot facilities, including parcel identification features for the individual parcels. Storage and retrieval 5241

[0138] Likewise, methods for supporting storage of the packages in storage positions of the depot device 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 by the transport unit 1241, 1641 and other devices, for example a pusher 1430, can be supported. Storage facilities 5342

[0139] An advantageous embodiment of this method is characterized in that the parcels are assigned to predetermined storage positions based on parcel identification features, that at least one transport unit 1241, 1641 moves along a transport path located in the depot device 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 in such a way that it can remove parcels from a mail stream of parcels based on the parcel identification features, that using the transport unit 1241, 1641 a transport of the parcels from the mail stream into the depot device 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 is made possible, wherein the transport of the transport unit 1241, 1241, 1641 within the depot device 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 is carried out taking into account the Package identification features assigned to warehouse positions are controlled. Transport and installation of depot facilities at locations 5150

[0140] The processing operations and processing units shown in column 5150 include means for transporting the depot equipment and for setting up the depot equipment at locations. Control device for autonomous or semi-autonomous transport 5251

[0141] The logistics system 5020 preferably also includes control devices 5150, 5151 for controlling the transport of the packages to the respective transfer points. These ensure that a depot device 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 containing the respective packages is transported to the respective transfer point.

[0142] The control devices 5150, 5151 can be components of the control component 5012 and / or interact with the control component 5012. User component 5351

[0143] It is advantageous to design the logistics system, or one or more of the components of the logistics system, in such a way that they can interact with user components 5351 via a user interface, in particular, to respond to requests for the handover of packages. User component 5351 is, for example, a smartphone, a smartwatch, or smart glasses. Handing over packages to recipient 5160

[0144] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the processing operations and processing units shown in column 5160 contain means for transferring packages to recipients. (Local) control unit for transferring packages 5170

[0145] A control unit 5170, 5171 controls processing operations in the area of the depot facilities, in particular when setting up the depot facilities in the area of the installation sites. Handover of parcels at individual handover points 5175

[0146] The design of processing operations for carrying out and improving the handover of parcels at individual handover points is shown in column 5175.

[0147] An advantageous variant is the handover to a single recipient at an individual handover point by the depot facility itself. This allows the depot facility to travel to various individual addresses one after the other and hand over one or more packages there.

[0148] individual handover point agreed with the recipient and / or communicated to the recipient. Request unit for handover at individual handover points 5180

[0149] The request unit 5180, 5281 is configured to interact with user components 5351 and / or an app, in particular a user app 5021, 5022, preferably via a user interface, and to respond in particular to requests for the transfer of packages. The user component 5351 is, for example, a smartphone, a smartwatch, or smart glasses. The user interface is configured to transmit information that initiates the transfer of packages and / or improves the transfer of packages. Examples of the transmittable information are package identification features, user identification features, authentication data, and notification information. Delivery of parcels 5190

[0150] The configurations of processing operations and processing units in the area of storage of parcels, goods objects and returned goods, preferably by means of a local control unit to enable delivery of the parcels, are shown in column 5190. Return transport of the depot facility and removal of 5195 packages

[0151] It is advantageous to keep the number of packages not delivered to recipients as low as possible and to carry out processing operations in such a way that as many of the packages located in the depot facility as possible, including in the area of the depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322, are delivered to recipients. Mobile depot facility Figure 6

[0152] The Figure 6shows a plan view of a horizontal cross-sectional plane of a logistics vehicle with at least two shelves. The loading space of a depot facility 830 has the following interior design according to the invention: On each of the two long sides, there is a storage facility (shelf unit) 1048 for storing packages. For an example design of the storage facility, see Fig. 7a to 7d A storage facility (shelf unit) that can be reconfigured at any time is also particularly advantageous, and even more advantageous is an automatically configurable one. Between the respective storage facility (shelf unit) 1048 and the outer skin of the loading space of the depot facility 830 are the pusher units 1045 and 1046 for moving packages from the storage facility (shelf unit) 1048 to the transport unit 1041. The transport unit 1041 transports the package 1044 along the guide rail 1047 to the transfer device 1049. Figures 7a - 7d

[0153] Figures 7a-d each show an advantageous compartment configuration of a rack according to the invention. The storage devices (rack units) located within depot facilities for storing packages can be as shown in the Figures 7a to 7d have a fixed compartment configuration, for example in Figure 7a with a total of 99 compartments divided into 63 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 24 compartments of size M (35cm x 20cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (35cm x 40cm x 50cm), the Figure 7b with a total of 91 compartments divided into 55 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 24 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (40cm x 40cm x 50cm), the Figure 7c with a total of 75 compartments divided into 31 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 32 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (40cm x 40cm x 50cm) and the Figure 7dwith a total of 69 compartments divided into 31 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 20 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 18 compartments of size L (40cm x 40cm x 50cm). Figures 10, 11

[0154] Figures 10 and 11 show an embodiment of a storage unit 1410 according to the invention with a shelf unit and a pusher unit 1420 for moving packages 1401 from a shelf 1412, 1512.

[0155] A guide rail 1420 or 1520 movably guides another guide rail on a predetermined path, in particular in the horizontal (y-direction) direction and / or vertical (z-direction), so that a slider 1430 is mounted and can be moved along a complete side surface of the shelf unit.

[0156] A stamp 1435 is arranged on the slider 1430 and can be moved in the X direction, so that the slider 1430 can transport packages 1401 from the shelf 1412,1512, in particular onto a transport unit.

[0157] Alternatively and / or additionally, it is expedient to equip the depot devices 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 with one or more gripping arms not shown for reasons of simplification.

[0158] The gripper arms are preferably arranged inside the logistics vehicles and are preferably long enough to transport packages between storage positions of the depot devices 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 and a transfer device 1601 of the depot devices 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322, preferably including removal from the transfer device 1601 and removal from storage positions of the depot device.

[0159] It is further advantageous to equip the depot devices 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 with at least one gripper arm, preferably similar to the gripper arms of the robots in the region of the end points. transport unit Figure 8

[0160] The Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a transport unit usable for the method according to the invention. Transport units support the storage and retrieval of packages into and from storage positions of storage facilities of the depot facilities, as well as the transport to and from a transfer facility of the depot facility. The transport unit 1241 according to the invention is guided by wheels 1292 on rails 1291, which is useful, for example, for use within depot facilities and / or in the area of transfer facilities.

[0161] The transport unit 1241 has a height-adjustable device 1293, which is designed, for example, in the shape of a hinge. The height-adjustable device 1293 serves for the height-adjustable mounting of a transfer platform 1294. The transfer platform 1294 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting packages. The light barrier sensors 1295 check whether, when a package is transferred to and / or from the transfer platform 1294, the package is completely and correctly positioned on the transfer platform 1294 or has been completely transferred from the transfer platform 1294 to the unit being transferred. Figure 9

[0162] The Figure 9shows a plan view of a transport unit usable for the method according to the invention; the transfer platform 1394 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting packages. By means of the conveyor belt, a package can be transferred, for example, to the transfer platform and / or from the transfer platform to a storage position of a depot facility. The light barrier sensors 1395 check whether, when a package is transferred to and / or from the transfer platform 1394, the package is complete and suitable for transport on the transfer platform 1394 or has been completely transferred from the transfer platform 1394 to the unit being transferred. Figures 12a, 12b

[0163] In advantageous embodiments of the invention, at least some of the depot devices 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322 are designed such that transport units move and / or are controlled in them in such a way that they can carry out and / or facilitate several or all of the following processing operations: Transporting packages between the transfer facility 1601 and storage locations of the depot facility; carrying out and / or facilitating the storage of packages into the storage locations of the depot facility; carrying out and / or facilitating the removal of packages from the storage locations of the depot facility. Transporting packages between the storage locations of the depot facility and the transfer facility 1601.

[0164] The transport unit 1641 according to the invention shown in Figures 12a and 12b is guided on rails, which is useful, for example, for use within depot facilities and / or in the area of transfer facilities.

[0165] The transport unit 1641 has a height-adjustable device 1693, which is designed, for example, in the form of a hinge. The height-adjustable device 1693 serves for the height-adjustable mounting of a transfer platform 1694. The transfer platform 1694 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting packages, for example the Figure 12a shown as an example package 1667. By means of the conveyor belt, a transfer of the package 1667, for example, to the transfer platform and / or from the transfer platform to a storage position of a depot facility 830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322, can be supported.

[0166] The transfer platform 1694 is preferably rotatably mounted. This facilitates, for example, the transfer platform 1694's ability to pick up packages from a conveyor belt of a transfer device 5336 and / or—preferably after rotation of the transfer device 5336—to transfer packages to storage positions of storage devices of the depot devices.

[0167] The transport unit 1641 represents a preferred embodiment of the transport units 1041, 1241, 1641 shown in this application.

[0168] It is also possible for the transport unit 1641 to be used as a transfer unit that can transport parcels between the depot facility and individual transfer points for transferring parcels to individual recipients and / or from individual consignors. handover overview

[0169] To transfer a goods object to the recipient, the package containing the goods object is first removed from the storage position of the depot facility, transported to the transfer platform 1694 of the transport unit 1641, and then into the transfer device 1601. The removal of packages from the storage positions of the depot facility can be facilitated alternatively and / or additionally by using the pusher unit 1420 shown in Figures 10 and 11.

[0170] The transfer of the at least one item of goods contained in the parcel preferably takes place by making it available to the recipient of the item of goods for removal. Alternatively, the item of goods can be transported to a goods lock as a transfer lock. Figure 12 (c and d)

[0171] Figures 12c and 12d show a schematic diagram of a transfer of a goods object located in a package 1698 in an area of a transfer facility, which occurs during the transfer to recipient 5160 and during the local delivery 5190.

[0172] The transfer facility 1601 is used to transfer parcels. The transfer of parcels can involve the transfer of parcels from a storage unit of the depot facility to a recipient and / or the acceptance of parcels from senders and the subsequent storage of the parcel in a storage unit in the depot facility.

[0173] After a recipient has removed a parcel, the transfer device 1601 closes again. The transport unit 1641 moves to the transfer device 1601 and checks by means of the light barrier whether there is a parcel in the transfer device 1601. In the Figure 12cIn the illustrated operating state of the transfer device 1601, the light barrier 1696 reports that there are no more packages in the transfer device. The transfer is thus successfully completed. Preferably, the person submitting the package, in particular the sender of the package, now receives a notification of the successful transfer, in particular the successful transfer to the recipient of the package. If the package was not assigned to an individualized recipient—this is the case, for example, if the package is a commodity object—the person submitting the package preferably receives a notification of the fact that the package was successfully transferred.

[0174] If a parcel or other item is located in the transfer facility 1601, the depot facility and / or the system checks whether the recipient of the parcel is still in the immediate vicinity of the depot facility. If this is the case, the recipient is immediately contacted via app and asked whether they would like to collect their parcel. If the recipient does not respond or declines, the parcel is transported by a transport unit and / or a gripper arm back to one of the storage positions of the depot facility, preferably to the storage position from which the parcel was collected.

[0175] Returning the parcel to one of the depot facility's storage locations is also advantageous if the recipient is no longer in the immediate vicinity of the depot facility. Reusable containers Figure 13

[0176] Figure 13shows a package from the prior art that is particularly preferred for the transfer. It shows an exemplary reusable container from the patent application with the publication number EP 3 865 417 A1. Such a reusable container or a similar one is treated as a package within the meaning of this application and is particularly suitable for carrying out the method in Figure 1 . Assigning packages to recipients based on recipient attributes

[0177] While in conventional parcel processing systems, processing of parcels provides for the transport of parcels from a fixed sender to one or more predefined recipients - this is also possible with the processing operations presented in the present application - the processing operations presented as advantageous in this application allow a flexible assignment of parcels to recipients and / or handover points, wherein it is particularly advantageous to carry out a flexible assignment of a final recipient and / or a final handover point, which can be selected as the final recipient in particular from the common optimized handover points and individual handover points presented in this application for an individual recipient.

Claims

1. Method for handover of a plurality of goods objects to a plurality of recipients , wherein the goods objects are stored and / or transported in parcels and are transferred in the parcels to a depot facility (830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322) and then stored in the depot facility (830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322), the depot facility (830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322) comprising a flexible storage unit (1048, 1410) and at least one transport unit (1041, 1241, 1641, 5341) for supporting the storage and removal of the parcels into and from storage positions of the storage unit (1048, 1410) and for transport to and from a transfer device, at least some of the parcels being designed as reusable containers which are provided with individual identifiers in such a way that they constitute an outer packaging for the goods object and that the goods object can be removed from the parcel, wherein the handover device is arranged such that, for at least some of the parcels, in each case at least one goods object located in the parcel is made available to a first recipient for removal, so that a handover of the goods object is carried out as a first handover operation and the handover device contains a means which can prevent a handover of the parcel, wherein the means comprises a controllable holding or fixing device for releasably securing and preventing the removal of a parcel, the parcel which is not transferred to the recipient of the object of goods remains in the depot facility (830, 5242, 5243, 5321, 5322), and the parcel is filled with at least one further object of goods after the first transfer operation and is used for a further transfer operation for the further object of goods to a further recipient, characterised in that the returnable containers having a unique identifier are linked to a parcel identification code, the returnable containers provided with the identifier being provided with the first parcel identification code up to a first transfer operation and processing operations of the returnable container as a parcel initially taking into account the first parcel identification code, the identifier being transmitted as information on a parcel identification characteristic to a control component (5012) of a logistics system (5020), the control component (5012) also receiving information on the recipients of the respective parcels, wherein after a handover of the at least one goods object contained in the returnable container, the link previously made between the returnable container having the identifier and the parcel identification code is cancelled by the control component (5012) of the logistics system (5020), wherein the returnable container provided with the identifier is linked to a second parcel identification code, wherein the further processing operations of the returnable container are carried out as a new parcel taking into account the second parcel identification code.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein a decision process takes place before or during at least one of the handover operations as to whether a parcel belongs to the part of the parcels in which at least one goods object located in the parcel is made available to a recipient for removal, but a handover of the parcel is prevented so that the parcel is not handed over to the recipient, or whether the parcel belongs to a further part of parcels which are handed over to the respective recipient in the handover operation.