BOOKING SYSTEM FOR A GOODS TRANSPORT METHOD, GOODS TRANSPORT DEVICE WITH SUCH A BOOKING SYSTEM AND GOODS TRANSPORT METHOD

DE502023000912D1Active Publication Date: 2025-05-15CARGOBEAMER
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE502023000912
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-10-19
Filing Date
2023-10-12
Publication Date
2025-05-15
Estimated Expiration
2043-10-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing rail transport systems face challenges in efficiently and inexpensively transporting general goods, as they often require specialized equipment and platforms, limiting flexibility and increasing costs.

Method used

A booking system and goods transport device that utilize a wagon attachment with individual compartments, allowing for efficient cross-loading and unloading of goods, and enabling flexible routing and loading options through a computer-controlled booking system.

Benefits of technology

This solution enables efficient, flexible, and cost-effective rail transport of general goods by allowing for the division of cargo space into customizable compartments, optimizing space usage, and facilitating the transport of diverse cargo types.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a booking system for a freight transport method for the rail transport of general cargo, a freight transport device with such a booking system, and such a freight transport method. In logistics, general cargo refers to any cargo that can be transported individually in one piece. General cargo includes, among other things, containers, such as crates or wire mesh boxes, or loaded pallets, machine or plant components, cable, paper, or sheet metal rolls, packages, and barrels. Liquid cargo, for example, or gases that are pumped into transport vehicles without their own containers, are not considered general cargo. Sand, coal, grain, and similar solids are considered bulk or suction cargo unless packaged.

[0002] A platform for booking requests for the transport of goods is known from US 2002 / 0123911 A1.

[0003] DE 10 2009 012 159 A1 discloses a goods handling device for combined freight transport for terminal or platform handling for the handling or transfer of goods such as containers, semi-trailers, truck trailers, trailers of articulated vehicles, standard intermodular loading units (ISO, Type C), or the like from road to rail and vice versa. The handling or transfer is carried out by horizontal, level-rail transverse loading of swap body elements or wagon attachments using transverse transport devices.

[0004] Level with the rails means that no special platform height is required or that the handling area of ​​the terminal or platform has the same or almost the same working level as the rails of the track system or the axle height of the wagons.

[0005] The goods handling device of DE 10 2009 012 159 A1 has a track system with two tracks and a loading track arranged next to and parallel to the track system, approximately level with the rails. Furthermore, the goods handling device has several shuttle beams for the transverse transport of the interchangeable load-bearing elements from a rail wagon to the loading track or vice versa. The shuttle beams each have lifting devices and can be moved back and forth transversely on support rail elements arranged below the floor in transverse grooves of the loading track. The cargo is placed and stored on the trough-shaped interchangeable load-bearing elements. The interchangeable load-bearing elements are mounted on the two side walls of the rail wagon. To unload the rail wagons, the shuttle beams are moved underneath the rail wagon, the interchangeable load-bearing element is lifted using the lifting devices, and the wagon side walls are folded outwards to the side.The wagon side walls are pivoted into a gap between the support rails so that the shuttle beams carrying the interchangeable load-bearing elements can pass over them. The interchangeable load-bearing elements are then lowered onto the loading track.

[0006] The goods handling device of DE 10 2009 012 159 A1 has proven itself for containers, semi-trailers and truck trailers, for example.

[0007] DE 10 2014 013 778 A1 discloses a wagon extension that can be used for the goods handling method described in DE 10 2009 012 159 A1. The wagon extension is designed as a covered wagon extension and has an extension floor wall, two extension side covers, two extension end walls, and an extension roof. The extension floor wall, the extension side covers, the extension end walls, and the extension roof define a wagon interior. The wagon extension also has at least one vertical partition wall perpendicular to the wagon's longitudinal direction and at least one horizontal partition floor, which divide the wagon interior into several, preferably cuboid-shaped, compartments. The compartments serve to accommodate the piece goods to be transported.

[0008] DE 10 2014 013 778 A1 also discloses a goods handling device with freight wagons with such a wagon attachment.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a freight transport method for the efficient and cost-effective rail transport of piece goods and a freight transport device therefor. Furthermore, a means for enabling efficient and cost-effective rail transport is to be provided.

[0010] This object is achieved by a booking system according to claim 1, a goods transport device according to claim 7 and a goods transport method according to claim 14. Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the respective subsequent subclaims.

[0011] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. They show: Figure 1: A perspective, schematic view of a freight wagon used according to the invention with a wagon attachment Figure 2: A perspective, schematic view of a section of a goods handling device according to the invention with a freight wagon and unloaded wagon attachment Figure 3: A perspective, schematic view of a section of a goods handling device according to the invention with an unloaded wagon attachment, a storage and retrieval device and a high-bay warehouse Figure 4: A further perspective, schematic view of the goods handling device according to Figure 3Figure 5: A perspective, schematic view of a wagon attachment movable on bases Figure 6: A perspective, schematic view of the wagon attachment according to the invention with partially opened, folded-up wagon attachment side covers Figure 7: A perspective, schematic view of a shuttle beam Figure 8: A side view of the wagon attachment Figure 9: Schematic of a goods transport device according to the invention Figure 10: Schematic of a possible sequence of the goods transport method according to the invention

[0012] The goods transport device 1 according to the invention ( Fig. 9 ; 10 ) has several goods handling devices 2, several freight trains 3 and, according to the invention, a computer-controlled booking system 4.

[0013] A goods handling device 2 ( Fig. 2-4 ; 9 ; 10) is used for loading and unloading freight trains 3, in particular for transferring goods from road, factories or manufacturing plants to rail and vice versa, with transfer preferably being carried out by means of cross-rail loading.

[0014] The goods handling device 2 can be arranged, for example, in a freight station, a plant or a factory or a logistics or goods distribution center or the like.

[0015] The freight handling device 2 has at least one railway track or track system 5 with two mutually parallel rail lines or track lines 5a; 5b, on which the freight trains 3 with locomotive 6 and attached rail cars or freight cars 7 are movably mounted. Within the scope of the invention, a freight train 3 is a train that has at least one freight car 7.

[0016] In particular, a loading track 8 approximately level with the rails is provided on both sides, adjacent to and outside the track system 5. Level with the rails means that the surface of the loading track 8 corresponds to the height of the top edges of the rails or is only slightly higher, e.g., by 10 to 50 cm. In contrast, with a crane, the load is lifted by approximately 5 m.

[0017] The goods handling device 2 also preferably has at least one transverse transport means, in particular a shuttle beam 9, which can be moved transversely, i.e. perpendicularly, to the track strands 5a; 5b below ground in transverse grooves 10 of the loading track 8. For this purpose, conveyor tracks 11 are provided in the transverse grooves 10, on which the shuttle beams 9 can be moved transversely to the track strands 5a; 5b, e.g., are supported by sliding or roller bearings. The conveyor tracks 11 can be support rails (according to WO 2007 / 104721 A1) in a manner known per se, on which the shuttle beams 9 can be moved transversely to the track strands 5a; 5b, e.g., are supported by sliding or roller bearings with their transport rollers. Alternatively, the conveyor tracks 11 themselves have stationary transport rollers on which the shuttle beams 9 are mounted (according to DE 10 2009 012 159 A1). Preferably, two shuttle beams 9 and four conveyor tracks 11 are provided for each freight car 7, namely two on each side of the track system 5.The conveyor tracks 11 each end in front of the track strands 5a; 5b. However, between the two track strands 5a; 5b, there are conveyor track sections 11a, which are arranged as a continuation of the conveyor tracks 11, so that the shuttle beams 9 can move from the conveyor tracks 11 to the conveyor track sections 11a and vice versa. This allows the shuttle beams 9 to move under a freight car 7 in a conventional manner, which will be discussed in more detail below. In front of the track strands 5a; 5b, the conveyor tracks 11 each have a gap 12 (. Fig. 4 ), into which the folded-down wagon side walls 13 of a wagon undercarriage 14 of the freight wagons 7 come to rest, which will also be discussed in more detail below.

[0018] The elongated shuttle beams 9 ( Fig. 2 ; 3 ; 7) have, in a manner known per se, beam lifting devices 15 on the top side, which serve to lift a wagon attachment 16 according to the invention from the loading track 8 and place it on the loading track 8. This will also be discussed in more detail below.

[0019] The goods handling device 2 also has several, preferably stationary, lifting devices 17 for lifting a wagon attachment 16 from the wagon undercarriage 14 or from the shuttle beams 9 and placing it on the wagon undercarriage 14 or on the shuttle beams 9. The lifting devices 17 are preferably arranged on both sides, each on the loading track side, directly next to track strands 5a; 5b. The lifting devices 17 are thus not arranged between the two track strands 5a; 5b, but outside them, but preferably in the track bed.

[0020] In a freight car 7 ( Fig. 1 ; 2 ; 9 ; 10) according to a preferred embodiment, it is a flat wagon with a covered or closed wagon body 16.

[0021] According to the International Union of Railways (UIC), a distinction is made between open freight wagons without a roof in standard design (UIC type E) and special design (UIC type F) and covered freight wagons with fixed roof in standard design (UIC type G) and special design (UIC type H) Another type of wagon is the flat wagon, which can be divided into flat wagons with standard bogies (UIC type R) or in special design (UIC type S) The freight wagon 7 according to the invention is therefore preferably a freight wagon 7 of the UIC type S.

[0022] A freight car 7 ( Fig. 1 ; 2 ; 9 ; 10) has the wagon undercarriage 14 and the wagon attachment 16 according to the invention placed thereon, in particular suspended thereon ( Fig. 1-6 ; 8 ) which accommodates the piece goods 18 to be transported. In addition, the freight wagon 7 has a horizontal wagon longitudinal direction 7a extending parallel to the track strands 5a;b and a horizontal wagon transverse direction 7b perpendicular thereto, as well as a vertical wagon height direction 7c.

[0023] The wagon undercarriage 14 comprises, in a manner known per se, a wagon frame 19 and two, in particular two-axle, bogies 20 spaced apart from one another in the wagon's longitudinal direction 7a for moving the freight wagon 7 on the track system 5. Instead of the bogies 20, single axles (not shown) may also be present.

[0024] The wagon frame 19 has two front ends or wagon head pieces 21 spaced apart from each other in the wagon's longitudinal direction 7a, which are each arranged at the front or end of the wagon undercarriage 14. The two wagon head pieces 21 are each mounted in a conventional manner on one of the two bogies 20. The two wagon head pieces 21 are each firmly connected to the respective bogie 20.

[0025] Furthermore, the two wagon head pieces 21 preferably each have a head piece frame 22, in particular a cuboid-shaped one.

[0026] Furthermore, a kingpin locking device 23, known per se, is preferably located on the top and centrally on at least one of the two wagon head pieces 21 for receiving and locking or locking a kingpin 24 of the wagon attachment 16 in the horizontal and / or vertical direction relative to the wagon undercarriage 14. The kingpin locking device 23 is preferably designed according to DE 10 2009 015 775 A1.

[0027] The wagon frame 19 also has the two wagon side walls 13. These rigidly connect the two wagon head sections 21 to each other, i.e., they are immovable and non-rotatable relative to each other. The wagon side walls 13 are each mounted on the wagon head sections 21 around a side wall pivot axis 25 parallel to the wagon's longitudinal direction 7a.

[0028] The two wagon side walls 13 each have a wall upper edge 13a.

[0029] In addition, the two wagon side walls 13 of a freight wagon 7 each have two end support webs 26 and a central load-bearing web 27 arranged between them. The load-bearing web 27 serves to accommodate or support the wagon attachment 16.

[0030] The two support webs 26 serve for the pivotable mounting of the wagon side walls 13 on the wagon head pieces 21, in particular the head piece frame frames 22, about the respective side wall pivot axis 25. For this purpose, the wagon side walls 13, in particular four each, have bearing arms 28, which are each fixedly connected at one end to the support webs 26, i.e. non-displaceably and non-rotatably.

[0031] At the other end, the bearing arms 28 each have a pivot bearing for pivotably supporting the wagon side walls 13 about the respective side wall pivot axis 25. The wagon head pieces 21 also have a corresponding pivot bearing.

[0032] Each freight wagon 7 also preferably has at least four first locking devices (not shown) for locking or arresting the wagon side walls 13 in their folded position ( Fig. 1 ). In particular, at least two first locking devices are provided for each wagon side wall 13, with one first locking device being provided for each support web 26. The locking devices are thus arranged in the region of the support webs 26 and lock them to the wagon head pieces 21. In addition, the locking devices are preferably designed according to DE 10 2012 004 945 A1.

[0033] Accordingly, a first locking device has two locking bolts that can be moved back and forth in the longitudinal direction 7a of the wagon. The locking bolts are each mounted on the headpiece frame 22 so that they can be moved back and forth in the longitudinal direction 7a of the wagon. Furthermore, the locking devices each have two locking housings that are fixed to the side wall and have a locking recess. The locking bolts can move into and out of the locking recess. In the retracted position, the wagon side wall 13 is locked to the wagon headpiece 21. For each locking bolt, a first locking device also has a lever mechanism, preferably identical, for actuating, i.e., for extending and retracting, the locking bolt.

[0034] Preferably, each freight wagon 7 also has a second locking device according to DE 10 2012 004 945 A1, which can be activated by placing the wagon attachment 16 on it.

[0035] To actuate the first locking devices, the goods handling device 2 preferably has a pivoting and unlocking device 29 (in Fig. 2 (shown schematically). These are also known from DE 10 2012 004 945 A1. The pivoting and unlocking devices 29 serve to release the locking of the wagon side walls 13 by the locking bolts and to fold the wagon side walls 13 in a controlled and guided manner.

[0036] As already explained, the wagon undercarriage 14 and, in particular, the wagon side walls 13 serve to accommodate the wagon attachment 16. This attachment has a longitudinal attachment direction 16a parallel to the wagon longitudinal direction 7a, a transverse attachment direction 16b parallel to the wagon transverse direction 7b, and a height attachment direction 16c parallel to the wagon vertical direction 7c. Viewed in the longitudinal attachment direction 16a, the wagon attachment 16 also has a first attachment end 30a and a second attachment end 30b.

[0037] As already explained, the freight wagon 7 is a closed freight wagon 7. Consequently, the wagon extension 16 is closed or covered and has an extension floor wall 31, two extension side covers 32, two extension end walls 33, and a closed extension roof 34. The extension floor wall 31, the extension side covers 32, the extension end walls 33, and the extension roof 34 define a wagon extension interior or loading space or freight space 35 of the wagon extension 16 or close it off to the outside.

[0038] The top base wall 31 and the two top end walls 33 are preferably made of solid sheet metal, in particular with stiffening ribs. These components have a load-bearing function. However, these components do not necessarily have to be solid; they can also be designed to be load-bearing in other ways.

[0039] The add-on roof 34 can also be designed in this way. Alternatively, the add-on roof 34 can be a tarpaulin or a combination of a rod-and-beam structure with a tarpaulin pulled over it. Furthermore, the add-on roof 34 does not have to be completely flat, but can, for example, have a flat, central roof section that connects to the respective add-on side cover 32 via two sloping, outer or lateral roof sections and connects to the respective add-on end wall 33 via two sloping, front-end roof sections.

[0040] The two attachment side covers 32 or only one of them can also be designed to be load-bearing.

[0041] The top floor wall 31 which delimits the wagon top 16 downwards and outwards is preferably of stepped design and has two horizontal, front-end floor wall sections 31a, a central, horizontal floor wall section 31b and two, in particular vertical, floor wall sections 31c, which each connect one of the two front-end floor wall sections 31a to the central floor wall section 31b.

[0042] Viewed in the longitudinal direction 16a of the attachment, the central bottom wall section 31b is arranged between the two front-end bottom wall sections 31a. The attachment bottom wall 31 is thus stepped in the longitudinal direction 16a of the attachment. Furthermore, the central bottom wall section 31b is offset downward relative to the two front-end bottom wall sections 31a, viewed in the height direction 16c of the attachment. The central bottom wall section 31b is thus arranged lower than the two front-end bottom wall sections 31a.

[0043] In the transverse direction 16b of the attachment, the bottom wall sections 31a; 31b; 31c each extend over the entire width or transverse extent of the wagon attachment 16.

[0044] At least one of the two end-side bottom wall sections 31a preferably also has a king pin 24 which projects vertically downwards on the outside of the end-side bottom wall section 31a.

[0045] The two attachment side covers 32 are preferably designed perpendicular to the attachment transverse direction 16b. They each laterally close off the wagon attachment 16. Consequently, they are each connected to the attachment floor wall 31, the two attachment end walls 33, and the attachment roof 34.

[0046] At least one of the two attachment side covers 32 is openable. For example, the openable attachment side cover 32 is made in particular of solid sheet metal and is hinged, wherein it can preferably be folded or pivoted upwards about an attachment side cover pivot axis 37 parallel to the attachment longitudinal direction 16a (see Fig. 3 ; 8 ). The solid, wall-like side cover 32 can also be made foldable (see Fig. 4 ) or consist of several parts made up of several opening flaps (not shown).

[0047] As already explained, the openable top-mounted side cover 32 does not have to be made of solid sheet metal. It can also be designed, for example, as a rollable or foldable tarpaulin with or without bars, or in another way.

[0048] For opening, the wagon attachment 16 preferably has a suitable attachment side cover opening device. The attachment side cover 32 is connected to the attachment side cover opening device in a manner that can be opened and closed again. The necessary drive energy is provided, for example, inductively or by means of a mechanical contact, e.g., a sliding or plug-in contact, with a power source. Corresponding contact elements are then provided on the wagon attachment 16 and in the goods handling device 2.

[0049] Alternatively, the goods handling device 2 has an external attachment side cover opening device (not shown), i.e., one not permanently connected to the wagon attachment 16, with which the attachment side cover 32 can be opened and closed again. This can be achieved, for example, by transmitting torque from an external electric drive via a positive-locking but separable coupling to an opening gear of the attachment side cover 32, which is arranged in the wagon attachment 16.

[0050] However, it can also be opened manually.

[0051] The two attachment end walls 33 are preferably formed perpendicular to the attachment longitudinal direction 16a. They also terminate the wagon attachment 16 at one of the two attachment end walls 30a;b.

[0052] Furthermore, the wagon attachment 16 also has several, preferably two, support elements 36, in particular fixed or foldable angle elements made of metal, preferably steel angles, with which the wagon attachment 16 rests directly on the wagon side walls 13, in particular the upper wall edge 13a.

[0053] The support elements 36 project outwards in the attachment transverse direction 16b beyond the attachment side covers 32.

[0054] According to the invention, the wagon superstructure 16 also has at least one vertical partition wall 38 perpendicular to the superstructure's longitudinal direction 16a and at least one horizontal intermediate floor 39a;b. Preferably, the wagon superstructure 16 has a plurality of vertical partition walls 38 perpendicular to the superstructure's longitudinal direction 16a and a plurality of horizontal intermediate floors 39a;b. The partition walls 38 and the intermediate floors 39a;b divide the loading space 35 into individual, preferably cuboid-shaped, compartments 40.

[0055] The wagon superstructure 16 thus has several compartments 40 arranged next to and above one another.

[0056] In addition, the intermediate walls 38 and intermediate floors 39a;b are preferably made of metal or plastic and are preferably solid or designed as a grid.

[0057] The intermediate floors 39a;b preferably each extend over the entire length of the wagon superstructure 16.

[0058] In addition, there are several vertical partition walls 38 adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction 16a of the top. These preferably extend continuously over the entire height of the wagon top 16.

[0059] The vertical partition walls 38, which are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 16a of the top, preferably extend continuously across the entire width of the loading space 35, so that all compartments 40 are accessible from both sides of the wagon top 16 after opening the respective top side cover 32. Consequently, there are preferably no partition walls parallel to the longitudinal direction 16a of the top.

[0060] This is possible, however. It is essential, however, that each compartment 40 is accessible from at least one side of the wagon body 16 after opening the respective side cover 32, or is open to one side of the wagon body 16 after opening the respective side cover 32. This ensures rapid loading and unloading of the compartments 40.

[0061] Furthermore, the partition walls 38 are fixed or adjustable in the longitudinal direction 16a of the top and can be fixed in different positions with appropriate fixing means. The intermediate shelves 39a;b are fixed or adjustable in the vertical direction 16c of the top and can be fixed in different positions with appropriate fixing means. This allows the dimensions of the compartments 40 to be varied and adapted to the dimensions of the cargo to be transported.

[0062] The individual compartments 40 also preferably have the following dimensions: preferred [cm] [cm] inner length 200 to 400 300 to 340 Internal width 240 to 260 250 to 255 Interior height 80 to 140 105 to 120

[0063] The individual compartments 40 serve, as already explained, to accommodate piece goods 18. In particular, they serve to accommodate cuboid containers, boxes, or crates 41 or the like, which are filled with loose transport goods or container goods. Optionally, the containers 41 are each arranged on a transport pallet 42, preferably a Euro pallet.

[0064] In particular, the containers 41 are also VDA containers (=small load carriers) and / or lattice boxes and / or IB (Intermediate Bulk Containers). The containers 41 are either open at the top or have a lid.

[0065] In general, general cargo 18 can be containers of all kinds.

[0066] The containers 41 are preferably arranged in the compartments 40 in a form-fitting manner in the longitudinal direction 7a of the wagon or the longitudinal direction 16a of the top, with a few centimeters, in particular 1-2 cm, of air space per gap as a tolerance, and are thus automatically secured against slipping in the longitudinal direction 7a of the wagon or the longitudinal direction 16a of the top by the vertical partition walls 38. The same applies to the transverse direction 7b of the wagon or the transverse direction 16b of the top.

[0067] If several containers 41 are arranged in a compartment 40, their overall dimensions are adapted accordingly to the dimensions of the compartment 40. Several containers 41 can be arranged next to one another in the same compartment 40, both in the longitudinal direction 16a and in the transverse direction 16b of the attachment.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, the compartments 40, or at least some of the compartments 40, at least partially comprise means for securing loads. These are preferably lashing straps and / or stowage cushions and / or anti-slip mats on the compartment floor and / or anti-slip floor coverings on the compartment floors and / or air cushions. The stowage cushions and / or air cushions are arranged beneath and / or between the individual cargo items 18 of a compartment 40.

[0069] Furthermore, the compartments 40, or at least some of the compartments 40, preferably have means for limiting vibration and shock. These are preferably anti-vibration mats and / or bearing cushions and / or spring-loaded shock absorption and / or hydraulic shock absorption.

[0070] In addition, the compartments 40, or at least some of the compartments 40, preferably have means for air conditioning, i.e., for adjusting the temperature and / or humidity of the compartment 40. This is preferably an air heat exchanger.

[0071] In addition, the compartments 40 or at least some of the compartments 40 preferably have means for, in particular continuously, monitoring or measuring specific condition parameters of the compartments 40. Preferably, the compartments 40 each have at least one sensor for measuring the vibration of the compartment 40 and / or at least one sensor for measuring the temperature of the compartment 40 and / or at least one sensor for measuring the humidity of the compartment 40 and / or means for measuring the weight of each piece of goods 18 arranged in a compartment 40 and / or means for determining the position of each piece of goods 18 arranged in a compartment 40. on.

[0072] The weight measuring devices are also used in particular to detect weight shifts in individual piece goods 18.

[0073] The position-determining means are preferably ultrasonic sensors. In particular, the position-determining means serve to detect slippage and / or deformation of the piece goods 18.

[0074] In addition, the wagon attachment 16 preferably also has means for, in particular continuously, monitoring or measuring specific status parameters of the wagon attachment 16. The wagon attachment 16 preferably has at least one sensor for measuring the acceleration and / or at least one sensor for measuring the inclination of the wagon attachment 16 and / or a sensor for locating the wagon attachment 16.

[0075] In addition, the freight wagon 7 can advantageously also have a sensor for locating the freight wagon 7.

[0076] The wagon attachment 16 preferably also has a power generation device, preferably a solar power system, particularly preferably a photovoltaic system, for generating electrical energy to power electrical components, in particular the means for measuring the condition parameters and / or the means for air conditioning and / or the attachment side cover opening device fixed to the wagon attachment, of the wagon attachment 16. The solar power system is preferably part of the attachment roof 34.

[0077] Alternatively or in addition to the solar power system, the freight car 7 can also have a power generation device in the form of a known axle generator.

[0078] As already explained, the wagon attachment 16 is mounted on the wagon undercarriage 14. The support elements 36 of the wagon attachment 16 rest on the upper edges 13a of the two wagon side walls 13. Furthermore, the kingpin 24, if present, is arranged in the kingpin locking device 23 and is locked by it. This locks the wagon attachment 16 horizontally to the wagon undercarriage 14.

[0079] The two end-side floor wall sections 31a are thus arranged above the two wagon head sections 21. The middle floor wall section 31b and the two vertical floor wall sections 31c are arranged between the two wagon head sections 21, as seen in the wagon longitudinal direction 16a. The middle floor wall section 31b is preferably arranged just above the top edge of the rail of the track system 5, in particular 15 to 50 cm, preferably 18 to 24 cm above.

[0080] Preferably, the external dimensions of the wagon body 16 are also dimensioned so that the freight wagon 7 either one or more of the loading gauges prescribed by the European infrastructure managers, in particular the loading gauge of Deutsche Bahn according to Annex II, Table 1.4 of the International Agreement on the Use of Freight Wagons (RIV of 2006), and / or the loading gauge of SBB according to Table 1.6 of Annex II to the RIV, and / or the vehicle restrictions resulting from one or more of the kinematic reference lines laid down in the European "Technical Specification for Interoperability of Freight Wagons (TSI), EU Commission Decision 2006 / 861 / EC, Reference No. K(2006) 3345, in particular reference lines G1, G2, GA, GB, GC, GB1, GB2, 3.3 or others.

[0081] Preferably, the wagon attachment 16 has the following external dimensions: preferred [m] [m] length 15 to 20 17 Width (support elements not included) 2.6 to 2.9 2,65 Height 3.8 to 4.5 4

[0082] Preferably, the wagon attachment 16 also has at least one, in particular mobile, data carrier, e.g. an RFID chip, and / or a marking, preferably a code, in particular a barcode or a QR code.

[0083] The data carrier contains, among other things, information regarding the loading of the wagon body 16. For example, it contains information about the quality class and / or the type of goods (NHM number) and / or the hazardous goods class of the respective general cargo 18 and where it is located. Due to the division into individual compartments 40, the information regarding the storage location can be stored very easily and precisely.

[0084] The NHM number (NHM = Harmonized Goods Nomenclature) is used for coding goods in rail freight transport. It is necessary for the data processing of freight transport.

[0085] In contrast to the data carrier on which the information can be written, stored and read, the markers represent a link to a web database on which the respective information is stored.

[0086] The wagon superstructure 16 can additionally or alternatively also have reference points, in particular visual markers, which are automatically detected by a loading and unloading device 43 using evaluation software in a digital camera image. The visual markers can be arranged as markings consisting of points, rectangles, straight lines, and circles, in particular at the intersections between the vertical and horizontal boundary walls of the compartments 40.

[0087] The loading and unloading device 43 is preferably a known storage and retrieval machine. The loading and unloading device 43 is preferably designed and arranged as described in DE 10 2014 013 778 A1.

[0088] The loading and unloading of the wagon attachments 16 onto or from the wagon undercarriage 14 is carried out in particular as described in DE 10 2014 013 778 A1: In particular, unloading is carried out as follows: a) Lifting the wagon attachments 16 from the wagon underframes 14, b) Transporting the lifted wagon attachments 16 to the loading track 8 and setting them down on a base, preferably the loading track 8 or mobile bases 46, c) Preferably automated unloading of the wagon attachments 16, in particular automated removal of at least some of the piece goods 18 from the compartments 40, preferably by means of the automated loading and unloading device 43, in particular the storage and retrieval device.

[0089] By means of transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams 9, unloading is preferably carried out as follows: a) Lifting the wagon attachments 16 from the wagon underframes 14, b) Unlocking and folding down the wagon side walls 13 outwards, c) Moving at least two transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams 9, under each wagon attachment 16 d) Setting down the wagon attachments 16 on the transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams 9, e) Moving the transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams 9, onto the loading track 8, f) Preferably setting down the wagon attachments 16 on a base, in particular the loading track 8 or the bases 46, g) Preferably automated unloading of the wagon attachments 16, in particular automated removal of the piece goods 18 from the compartments 40, preferably by means of the automated loading and unloading device 43, in particular the storage and retrieval device, wherein preferably the loading and unloading device 43 is controlled by means of a control means, preferably the master computer.

[0090] Loading then takes place in the usual way in reverse order.

[0091] The load contained in the wagon attachment 16 can now be transported further in various ways after the wagon attachment 16 has been unloaded from the wagon undercarriage 14, in particular as also described in DE 10 2014 013 778 A1: According to one variant, the goods handling device 2, as described above, has the loading and unloading device 43, in particular the storage and retrieval machine, which is arranged on the side of the loading track 8 facing away from the track system 5 and can be moved back and forth in the attachment's longitudinal direction 16a. A warehouse, preferably a high-bay warehouse 45, is arranged on the side of the loading and unloading device 43 facing away from the loading track 8. The piece goods 18 are removed from the wagon attachment 16 and stored at a predetermined location in the warehouse, preferably the high-bay warehouse 45. This is preferably carried out under automated control.

[0092] The top side cover 32 is opened either manually or automatically by means of a wagon top-mounted or external top side cover opening device.

[0093] According to a further variant, a means of transport, e.g., a conveyor belt, a roller conveyor, a roller conveyor track, or a tugger train, is provided instead of the high-bay warehouse 45. The piece goods 18 are then deposited on the respective means of transport, in particular in an automated manner, and transported by the means of transport to the destination in an automated manner.

[0094] Alternatively, the wagon attachments 16 are not placed directly on the loading track 8, but rather on waiting, movable bases 46, which are ready on the loading track 8. In particular, the movable wagon attachment 16 with the bases 46 can also be loaded and unloaded outside the goods handling device 2.

[0095] Furthermore, the wagon attachment 16 does not need to be removed from the wagon undercarriage 14 beforehand for unloading. The unloading of the wagon attachment 16 can also take place when the wagon attachment 16 is arranged on the wagon undercarriage 14. However, prior removal of the wagon attachment 16 from the wagon undercarriage 14 is preferred.

[0096] The loading of the wagon attachment 16 takes place in the reverse manner to the unloading.

[0097] According to the invention, the goods transport device 1 also has, as already explained, the computer-controlled booking system 4 for booking individual loading space areas 44 of the loading space 35. The term "loading space area 44" therefore refers to a part of the loading space 35 and not the entire loading space.

[0098] A computer-controlled booking system is a computer application that allows resources to be reserved for a limited period of time and without conflict.

[0099] The computer-controlled booking system 4 is configured to allow a respective client or customer who wishes to ship a load unit or freight unit in the form of one or more general cargo items from a first location, the location of the load unit, to a destination, to book a loading area 44 of the loading space 35 of a freight wagon 7 of a freight train 3. On its way from the starting point to the destination, the load unit is transported by a freight wagon 7, at least for a portion of its route. For this purpose, the freight trains 3 travel on a route network or rail network, preferably according to a fixed timetable, between the freight handling facilities 2.

[0100] A load unit therefore consists of one or more general cargo 18 that a client / customer wishes to have transported together.

[0101] Depending on the number and size of the piece goods 18, a loading space area 44 can consist of one or more compartments 40 or only of one compartment area of ​​a compartment 40.

[0102] The computer-controlled booking system 4 comprises, in particular in a manner known per se, at least one database system and an interface, preferably a web portal, for making the booking by a user.

[0103] The database system is used to store all data necessary for booking. In particular, it is used to store one or more of the following information or data: Freight train timetables 3 Number and layout of compartments 40 of freight wagons 7 of freight trains 3 Specific information regarding the individual compartments 40, in particular Suitability of the respective compartment 40 for the transport of dangerous goods Suitability of the respective compartment 40 for the transport of general cargo with a specific NHM number or specific NHM numbers Suitability of the respective compartment 40 for the transport of sensitive general cargo 18, in particular vibration-sensitive and / or temperature-sensitive and / or moisture-sensitive general cargo 18 Maximum loading dimensions of the general cargo to be transported 18 Maximum loading weight of the general cargo to be transported 18 Capacity utilization of the respective compartments 40 at the time of booking

[0104] The user books the loading space 44 via the interface, preferably via the web portal. The user enters, for example, the desired starting and destination locations 47;48, the date, time (if applicable), as well as further information regarding the cargo unit to be transported, in particular the type and number of general cargo and their weight.

[0105] Preferably, special requirements such as dangerous goods or sensitivity classes can also be specified.

[0106] The user is then shown the possible starting goods handling device(s) 2, where they can transport their load unit or freight. The user is also shown the possible destination goods handling device(s) 2, where their load unit or freight will arrive. If multiple goods handling devices 2 are possible, the user can select the desired goods handling device 2.

[0107] According to a first embodiment, the load unit to be transported is allocated a loading space area 44 on a specific freight wagon 7 of a freight train 3, which runs on a suitable route at the appropriate time, with the aid of a computer-aided algorithm, depending on the starting and destination locations 47; 48, the desired transport date and other attributes.

[0108] The automated allocation ensures optimal utilization of freight trains 3.

[0109] Alternatively, the booking system 4 is configured so that the user can select the loading area 44 himself, in particular on an interactive interior view of the loading space 35.

[0110] In any case, after completing the booking, the user receives the exact information about the booked loading area 44, i.e., among other things, which compartments 40 he has booked on which freight wagon 7 of which freight train 3.

[0111] Preferably, the booking system 4 is also configured to enable the customer to check the status of the cargo unit at any time.

[0112] For this purpose, the booking system 4 is preferably configured to allow the user to check the measured condition parameters in the cargo hold area 44, such as temperature or humidity, at any time during transport. The measured condition parameters are made available to the user as live data and / or they can also be retrieved after transport. For this purpose, the booking system 4 accesses the means for measuring the condition parameters of the compartments 40.

[0113] Furthermore, the booking system 4 is preferably also configured to allow the user to optionally book a first- and / or last-mile service. First-mile service refers to the transport of the load unit from the location or starting point 47 of the load unit to the starting goods handling facility 2. Last-mile service refers to the transport of the load unit from the destination goods handling facility 2 to the final destination 48.

[0114] This transport is preferably carried out by local public transport, preferably by electric vehicles. However, it can of course also be carried out by conventional trucks or small vans.

[0115] The advantage of the method according to the invention is that, due to the use of the wagon superstructure 16 with the individual compartments 40, the loading space 35 can be divided into individual loading space areas 44 with fixed dimensions and environmental conditions. Since the loading space areas 44 can be loaded and unloaded completely independently of one another, it is possible for the customer to only use the space in the freight wagon 7 for rail transport actually required for their load unit. Due to this independence of the individual loading space areas 44, a wide variety of load unit types can be transported simultaneously and side by side within a loading space 35, thereby enabling full capacity utilization and maximum space efficiency. Furthermore, the various customers can precisely assign their load unit within the loading space 35 and track it throughout the transport process.

[0116] The method according to the invention thus makes it possible to transport partial loads, i.e., load units that do not completely fill the loading space 35, more efficiently, safely, and in a more climate-friendly manner. The sensors, preferably present, also ensure comprehensive load monitoring throughout the entire transport period.

[0117] Due to the preferably available means of securing loads and the preferably available means of air conditioning, even particularly sensitive load units can be transported.

[0118] A further advantage of the wagon attachment 16 is that it can also be used as an intermediate storage facility for piece goods 18.

[0119] It is of course also within the scope of the invention that the load unit is not merely transported from the starting goods handling device 2 to the destination goods handling device 2 by means of a single goods train 3.

[0120] For example, the freight wagon 7 together with the load unit can be uncoupled from a freight train 3 and coupled to another freight train 3 and the load unit can thus be transported on individual route sections with different freight trains 3.

[0121] Or the wagon attachment 16 can be unloaded from the wagon underframe 14 of the freight wagon 7 of one freight train 3 and loaded onto the wagon underframe 14 of a freight wagon 7 of another freight train 3.

[0122] Of course, the cargo unit itself can also be reloaded.

[0123] All of this can be done multiple times and / or alternatively.

[0124] Furthermore, the freight car 7 can also be a covered freight car 7 without a removable wagon extension 16. However, it is important that the freight car 7 has the loading space 35 with the compartments 40. Loading and unloading of the freight car 7 with the general cargo 18 or the general cargo 18 then takes place directly onto or from the freight car 7. This naturally also applies to the freight car 7 with the wagon extension 16. This can also be loaded and / or unloaded directly.

[0125] Furthermore, it is also within the scope of the invention for the wagon base 14 to be a pocket wagon or other wagon onto which the wagon attachment 16 is mounted in such a way that it can be lifted by a crane. The crane then serves both as a lifting device for raising and lowering the wagon attachment 16 from or onto the wagon undercarriage 14 and as a transverse transport means for transporting the lifted wagon attachment 16 to the loading track 8 and from the loading track 8 to the wagon undercarriage 14.

[0126] Also, the wagon attachment 16 according to the invention does not have to be placed on the wagon side walls 13, but can also be placed directly on the two wagon head pieces 21, for example.

Claims

1. Computerized booking system (4), characterized in that the booking system (4) is configured for booking a loading space area (44) of a loading space (35) of a freight car (7) of a freight train (3) for the transportation of a freight unit comprising one or more piece goods (18) by means of the one freight train (3), wherein the loading space (35) comprises a plurality of compartments (40) which are separated from one another and arranged next to and above one another, and wherein the booking system (4) is configured such that a user can select the desired loading space area (44) himself.

2. Booking system (4) according to claim 1, characterized in that the loading space (35) is the loading space (35) of a railcar pallet (16) of the freight car (7), which can be removed from and placed on a railcar undercarriage (14) of a freight car (7).

3. Booking system (4) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a) the booking system (4) is configured for booking the transportation of the freight unit from a starting freight handling device (2) to a destination freight handling device (2) by means of a single freight train (3) or various freight trains (3) and / or by means of a single freight car (7) or various freight cars (7) and / or by means of a single railcar pallet (16) or various railcar pallets (16), and / or b) the booking system (4) is configured for booking a first and / or last mile processing.

4. Booking system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the booking system (4) comprises a database system and an interface, preferably a web portal, for making the booking by a user.

5. Booking system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the booking system (4) is configured such that the user can select the desired loading space area (44) himself on an interactive interior view of the loading space (35).

6. Booking system (4) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that one or more of the following information is stored in the database system: - Timetables of the freight trains (3) - Number and arrangement of the compartments (40) of the freight cars (7) of the freight trains (3) - Specific information on the individual compartments (40), in particular: - Suitability of the respective compartment (40) for the transportation of dangerous goods - Suitability of the respective compartment (40) for the transportation of piece goods with a specific NHM number or specific NHM numbers - Suitability of the respective compartment (40) for the transportation of sensitive piece goods (18), in particular vibration-sensitive and / or temperature-sensitive and / or moisture-sensitive piece goods (18) - Maximum loading dimensions of the piece goods (18) to be transported - Maximum load weight of the piece goods (18) to be transported - Occupancy of the respective compartments (40) at the time of booking7. Freight transportation device (1) for rail transportation of piece goods (18), comprising: a) a plurality of freight trains (3), each having at least one freight car (7) with a loading space (35), wherein the loading space (35) comprises a plurality of compartments (40) which are separated from one another and arranged next to and above one another, b) a plurality of freight handling devices (2) for loading and unloading the freight trains (3) with or from the piece goods (18), the freight trains (3) running on a rail network between the freight handling devices (2), characterized in that the freight transportation device (1) comprises a booking system (4) according to one of the preceding claims.

8. Freight transportation device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that a) a loading space area (44) in each case consists of one or more compartments (40) or of a compartment area of a compartment (40), and / or b) at least some of the compartments (40) of a freight car (7) comprise means for securing the load, and / or c) at least some of the compartments (40) comprise means for limiting vibration and shock, and / or d) at least some of the compartments (40) comprise means for air conditioning, in particular for adjusting the temperature and / or the humidity, of the compartment (40), and / or e) at least some of the compartments (40) comprise means for, in particular continuous, measuring at least one status parameter of the compartment (40), wherein the compartments (40) preferably comprise - at least one sensor for measuring the vibration of the compartment (40) and / or - at least one sensor for measuring the temperature of the compartment (40) and / or - at least one sensor for measuring the humidity of the compartment (40) and / or - means for measuring the weight of each of the piece goods (18) arranged in a compartment (40) and / or - means for determining the position of each of the piece goods (18) arranged in a compartment (40), wherein preferably the booking system (4) is configured such that it enables the user, in particular via the interface, to retrieve the measured status parameter(s) live during transportation, and / or f) each compartment (40) is accessible from at least one side of the freight car (7) after opening a respective side cover of the freight car (7).

9. Freight transportation device (1) according to one of the claims 7 to 8, characterized in that the freight car (7) is a covered freight car (7), wherein the freight car (7) preferably comprises a railcar undercarriage (14) and a railcar pallet (16) mounted thereon and removable therefrom, wherein the railcar pallet (16) comprises the loading space (35), wherein preferably a) the railcar pallet (16) comprises means for, in particular continuous, monitoring or measuring specific status parameters of the railcar pallet (16), wherein the railcar pallet (16) preferably comprises at least one sensor for measuring the acceleration and / or at least one sensor for measuring the inclination of the railcar pallet (16) and / or a sensor for locating the railcar pallet (16), and / or b) the railcar pallet (16) comprises a horizontal pallet longitudinal direction (16a), support elements (36) for direct support on the railcar undercarriage (14), preferably on railcar side walls (13) of the railcar undercarriage (14), and preferably means for horizontal locking of the railcar pallet (16) to the railcar undercarriage (14), and / or c) the railcar pallet (16) is releasably locked to the railcar undercarriage (14) in the horizontal and preferably also in the vertical direction.

10. Freight transportation device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the railcar pallet (16) is configured as covered railcar pallet (16) and comprises a pallet bottom wall (31), two pallet side covers (32), two pallet end walls (33) and a pallet roof (34), wherein the pallet bottom wall (31), the pallet side covers (32), the pallet end walls (33) and the pallet roof (34) delimit the loading space (35), and preferably, the railcar pallet (16) comprises at least one vertical partition wall (38) perpendicular to the pallet longitudinal direction (16a) and at least one horizontal partition floor (39a;b), which divide the loading space (35) into the compartments (40), wherein preferably at least one of the pallet side covers (32) is openable, wherein the railcar pallet (16) preferably has a pallet side cover opening device, with which the pallet side cover (32) is openably and closably connected.

11. Freight transportation device (1) according to one of the claims 9 to 10, characterized in that - the railcar undercarriage (14) comprises a railcar frame (19) and two bogies (20) or two individual axles, - the railcar frame (19) comprises two railcar head pieces (21) and preferably two railcar side walls (13) extending parallel to a railcar longitudinal direction (7a) and connected to the two railcar head pieces (21), - preferably the two railcar side walls (13) can each be folded outward about a side wall pivot axis (25) parallel to the railcar longitudinal direction (7a) and are releasably locked to each of the two railcar head pieces (21) in their folded-in position by means of a locking device, - the railcar pallet (16) is mounted with its support elements (36) on the railcar undercarriage (14), preferably the railcar side walls (13), so as to be liftable therefrom, wherein the railcar pallet (16) preferably is suspended in the railcar side walls (13).

12. Freight transportation device (1) according to one of the claims 9 to 11, characterized in that a) a freight handling device (2) in each case comprises: - a track system (5) with two track lines (5a;5b), - a loading track (8) arranged next to the track (5) and parallel to it, - lifting devices (17), preferably stationary, for raising and lowering the railcar pallets (16) from and onto the respective railcar undercarriage (14), - at least one transverse transport device for the transverse transportation of the railcar pallets (16) from a freight car (7) to the loading track (8) and vice versa, comprising in each case at least one transverse transport means (9), preferably movable transversely to the track system (5), wherein preferably the freight handling device (2) comprises a plurality of conveyor tracks (11) extending in a railcar transverse direction (7b) transversely to the track system (5), expediently arranged underfloor in transverse grooves (10) of the loading track (8), wherein the transverse transport means are shuttle beams (9), each of which is mounted on one of the conveyor tracks (11) so as to be movable back and forth in the railcar transverse direction (7b), wherein the shuttle beams (9) preferably each have beam lifting devices (15) for raising and lowering the railcar pallet (16), and / or b) a freight handling device (2) in each case comprises control means, preferably a master computer, for controlling the loading and unloading of the freight cars (7) directly and / or of the unloaded railcar pallets (16) with a loading and unloading device (43), wherein the control means is in signal-transmitting connection with the loading and unloading device (43).

13. Freight transportation device (1) according to one of the claims 7 to 12, characterized in that a) the freight car (7), preferably the railcar pallet (16), comprises a power generation device, preferably a solar power system, preferably a photovoltaic system, for generating electrical energy to power electrical components of the freight car (7), in particular of the railcar pallet (16), wherein the solar power system preferably is part of the pallet roof (34), and / or b) the freight car (7) comprises a sensor for locating the freight car (7).

14. Freight transportation method, preferably using a freight transportation device (1) according to one of the claims 7 to 13, for the at least partial rail transport of freight units comprising one or more piece goods (18) by means of freight trains (3), wherein each freight train (3) has at least one freight car (7) with a loading space (35), wherein the loading space (35) comprises a plurality of compartments (40) separated from one another and arranged next to and above one another, in which the freight units are transported, characterized in that the freight units are each transported in a loading space area (44) of the loading space (35) together with at least one further freight unit arranged in another loading space area (44), and a computerized booking system (4) according to one of the claims 1 to 4 is used for allocating the loading space areas (44).

15. Freight transportation method according to claim 14, characterized in that a freight unit is in each case transported by means of the at least one freight train (3) from a starting freight handling device (2) to a destination freight handling device (2).

16. Freight transportation method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that unloading a freight train (3) is carried out with the following method steps: a) lifting the railcar pallets (16) from the railcar undercarriages (14), b) transporting the lifted railcar pallets (16) to the loading track (8) and preferably placing them on a support, in particular on the loading track (8) or bases (46), c) preferably automated, unloading of the railcar pallets (16), in particular automated removal of the piece goods (18) from the compartments (40), by means of an automated loading and unloading device (43), in particular a storage handling device, wherein preferably the unloading of a freight train (3) is carried out with the following method steps: a) lifting the railcar pallets (16) from the railcar undercarriages (14), b) unlocking and folding down the railcar side walls (13) to the outside, c) moving at least two transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams (9), under a respective railcar pallet (16), d) placing the railcar pallets (16) on the transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams (9), e) moving the transverse transport devices, in particular the shuttle beams (9), onto the loading track (8), f) preferably placing the railcar pallets (16) on a support, in particular the loading track (8) or the bases (46), g) preferably automated, unloading of the railcar pallets (16), in particular automated removal of the piece goods (18) from the compartments (40), by means of an automated loading and unloading device (43), in particular a storage handling device, wherein preferably the loading and unloading device (43) is controlled by a control means, preferably a master computer.