Acceptance method for empty containers to be removed and packages to be transmitted, package-emptys acceptor station and goods-selling file for same

Abstract

The invention relates to the joint automatic acceptance of parcels (P) on the one hand and returned empty crates (L) containing empty bottles (F) to be refilled on the other, by means of a parcel return station (PL-AS) designed for this purpose at or in retail outlets (WVF) in which, among other things, the filled bottles are sold as goods (W).

Description

I. Area of ​​application

[0001] The invention relates on the one hand to handling, in particular automatic acceptance, on the one hand, empty containers, especially beverage crates filled with empty bottles, which are returned automatically, and on the other hand, parcels, especially returned parcels, which are automatically handed in by customers and sent to recipients, especially retail outlets. II . Technical background

[0002] If, in order to improve customer loyalty, customers in a retail store are to be able to drop off parcels, or at least returned parcels, in or at the retail store, it is in the interest of the retail store operator that this happens as automatically and unmanned as possible by means of an automated parcel acceptance station.

[0003] In addition, there are other items that customers hand in to or at the retail outlet, namely deposit-bearing empty, non-refillable beverage containers, which are usually made of plastic or aluminum, as well as deposit-bearing empty, refillable beverage containers, which are usually made of glass.

[0004] For this purpose, reverse vending machines are used at or within retail outlets, where at least individual empty, deposit-bearing beverage containers can be returned. There are also reverse vending machines that accept entire beverage crates filled with empty glass bottles. These machines operate automatically and without human intervention, at least on the customer side.

[0005] For both, the retail store must provide sufficient space, including an anteroom, carry out or arrange for the corresponding maintenance of the machines, and handle the returned deposit items and packages with its staff on the rear side facing away from the customer, as automation in this regard is currently still too complex.

[0006] From EP 2 759 988 A1, a recycling station 1 with electronic deposit return is known. The deposit amount is only paid out electronically after the specific deposit amount to be paid out has been verified at a location other than the installation site of the recycling station 1.

[0007] Two different types of packaging containers 70 can be handed in at one or more drop-off openings 21 of a drop-off unit 20 of the recycling station 1.

[0008] The returned packaging containers 70 are marked with an individual code that identifies the user who returned them and are then transported into the interior of Recycling Station 1 by means of a conveyor belt 31. They are also weighed. Sensors or cameras can record the dimensions of the packaging containers 70 and serve for documentation and identification purposes. Optionally, the user can print a receipt for the returned packaging container 70.

[0009] Packaging containers of size 70 can be either bags, pouches, or boxes filled with empty bottles, or standard beverage crates filled with empty bottles. The type of packaging container of size 70 can vary.

[0010] The 70' bags are transported via a different route and deposited in a different location within Recycling Station 1 than the 70' beverage crates. For this purpose, the 70' bags and 70' beverage crates can be sorted based on the measured and / or read data.

[0011] The bags 70' are picked up by the conveyor belt 31 with the aid of a gripper 41 and placed in a collection container 60 or – when this is full – in a buffer storage container 80 shown in Fig. 7. Full collection containers 60 are transported to a location away from the recycling station 1 for emptying.

[0012] The 70" beverage crates are conveyed to roller conveyors 95 of a crate storage unit 90 shown in Fig. 7 within the recycling station 1. The roller conveyors 95 transport the 70" beverage crates by gravity into Fig. 3to the right towards the rear wall 12. There they can be removed through a gate 15 for transport to the distant location. III. Description of the invention a) Technical task

[0013] The object of the invention is therefore to minimize the space requirements, machine effort and manual post-processing for accepting deposit goods on the one hand and packages on the other. b) Solution of the task

[0014] This problem is solved by the features of claims 1, 15 and 22. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0015] Regarding the procedure According to the invention, the same automatic parcel return station and the same return machine are used for both empty crates and parcels.

[0016] Since certain functions must be present in both cases, for example the optical recognition of certain characteristics on the submitted item, the creation and issuance of a delivery receipt to the customer, the further transport of the item placed behind the input opening in the input channel, The necessary physical equipment of the return machine should be used jointly for both purposes.

[0017] In this way, both an empty crate and a package are initially checked; the empty crate in particular for complete, correct filling with bottles, the package, on the other hand, for the presence of certain package information on the package, in particular its label, for which appropriate optical sensors such as cameras can be used in the input channel.

[0018] Chemical sensors can also be used to identify parcel bombs, particularly in the input channel, by detecting traces of explosives. Additionally, a surveillance camera can monitor the input area of ​​the return machine to film the perpetrator.

[0019] This allows for fully automatic differentiation between empty crates and packages, including determining the filler of the empty crate and its correct filling with bottles.

[0020] Alternatively, the customer can specify the item to be dispensed in advance at the operating unit, which opens up the possibility of automatically positioning a waterproof and / or dirt-repellent mat on the input conveyor before placing a package on it, in order to prevent the contamination of packages by residual liquids.

[0021] The receipt to be issued to the customer - in one case a deposit receipt, in the other case a delivery receipt for a package - is created with the same receipt generator, in particular a printer, and issued to the customer.

[0022] The input channel and the transport device for the object contained therein can be used - at least partially - for both purposes, as will be explained later using the figures.

[0023] In particular, the internal transport device, downstream of the input channel, may have a switch to branch into a transport route for packages and a transport route for empty crates.

[0024] To keep the required floor space small, the two transport routes are preferably arranged one above the other.

[0025] The transport device preferably consists of conveyor belts that run horizontally, upwards or downwards, for example so that the transported goods achieve the height difference between transport sections arranged one another.

[0026] The conveyor belts can preferably be designed to pivot, in particular around a pivot axis running in their transport direction. This allows them to be pivoted into an upright position, so that a service walkway accessible to personnel is created in place of the conveyor belts.

[0027] Since the transport device in the input channel, usually an endless circulating conveyor belt, could be wet or dirty from the boxes of empty bottles, the packages are preferably not placed directly onto the transport device, but with a waterproof base in between, for example an open-topped plastic trough into which the package is placed.

[0028] However, since these could be stolen, another solution is for the waterproof backing to be merely a piece of foil or waterproof paper, which is not worth stealing, and for the transport device in the input channel to have a document dispenser, in particular with a reservoir for such a waterproof backing.

[0029] An alternative solution involves using individual, laterally spaced conveyor belts, preferably with a roof-shaped, pointed cross-section, driven synchronously, instead of a continuous conveyor belt spanning the width. These belts are designed to prevent liquid from accumulating on them. Furthermore, such belts can be easily cleaned by an automatic cleaning device, for example using compressed air, particularly before each item is placed on them.

[0030] Preferably, a package is automatically checked, particularly based on the printed information, to determine whether it has sufficient postage or whether the recipient of the package will pay the postage.

[0031] Otherwise, the package will either be rejected or the acceptance station will also offer the option of franking packages, as described later.

[0032] The packages are transported to the central parcel warehouses of the individual parcel logistics companies.

[0033] This can be done in different ways: Preferably, the packages are first transported from the retail store where the receiving station was located to a central warehouse of the retail store's supplier, preferably on a daily basis.

[0034] The sorting of the packages can take place at different times during this process, but at the latest in the central goods warehouse, possibly even earlier, perhaps already at the receiving station, or at a time in between.

[0035] Due to space constraints in individual retail outlets, it makes sense to centralize sorting in central warehouses and organize distribution to the various parcel logistics providers. The advantage for the parcel logistics provider is that they only need to visit the few central warehouse locations instead of the significantly larger number of retail outlets.

[0036] From the central goods warehouses, the packages are sorted according to the individual logistics providers - for example, in the car swap bodies or containers assigned to the individual logistics providers - and transported to the parcel central warehouses of the individual logistics providers, preferably by the logistics provider itself.

[0037] The advantage for the parcel logistics provider is that its effort to collect the parcels dropped off decreases, and it may even be able to manage with fewer of its own logistics-specific parcel acceptance stations, which drastically reduces its operating costs.

[0038] For the operator of the retail outlets, this approach offers the advantage of increasing the relationship with their customers who wish to take advantage of the collection points at their retail outlets.

[0039] The customer saves on additional trips and waiting times.

[0040] The advantages for these three parties can be further increased by additional measures in the procedure: By making the joint parcel and empty container acceptance station at least partially or especially fully automated on the customer side and, in particular, able to operate unmanned, the operator, who is usually also the operator of the goods sales branch there, needs little or no additional staff.

[0041] Above all, the number of return machines in such a collection point can be very easily adjusted to the demand, so that the customer has little or no waiting time to fear when dropping off their parcel.

[0042] If, after dropping off the package, the customer receives a drop-off receipt in paper form or on their smartphone or via email, which indicates the drop-off time and / or the parcel logistics company listed on the package that will carry out the further delivery process and / or a corresponding shipment identifier that allows the customer to track the package online, the customer can track the progress of their package and its delivery to the recipient, just as if they had dropped off the package at a logistics company-specific acceptance station.

[0043] Since some packages – especially so-called primary packages, which the customer has created themselves and which are not return packages – need to be franked before shipping, it is advantageous for the customer if this franking can also be carried out at the receiving station, preferably automatically, and in particular if payment can be made without cash, or if the customer can pay the fee for the package transport online in advance.

[0044] The customer then doesn't even have to visit a logistics provider-specific receiving station, which is staffed and usually involves waiting time and travel, for such primary packages.

[0045] Since the parcel logistics provider is not specified for primary parcels, the customer can choose a specific parcel logistics provider at their own discretion – at the latest at the acceptance station – whether based on the transport fees, which usually differ for the individual parcel logistics providers, or on other criteria, such as the quality or speed of transport and delivery.

[0046] Preferably, however, the customer is informed in advance of the transport fee charged by the individual parcel logistics companies when dropping off the parcel at the acceptance station, and can then choose the parcel logistics company.

[0047] This is an advantage that is no longer offered to him if he has previously committed to a specific parcel logistics provider by visiting a specific logistics provider-specific acceptance point.

[0048] Since the parcel being handed over contains an identifier that represents the parcel logistics provider who is to transport the parcel, and since such a parcel logistics provider is selected by the customer at the control unit at the latest when handing over the parcel, the operator has the option of automatically directing this parcel, while still at the receiving station, to a collection container specific to this parcel logistics provider.

[0049] This eliminates the need for later sorting of parcels according to individual parcel logistics providers, for example in the central warehouse, and allows the individual parcel logistics providers to collect the collection containers directly from the individual retail outlets.

[0050] Furthermore, it is possible to inform the parcel logistics provider in a very timely manner, for example every day or several times a day or even just-in-time, preferably automatically, about the number of parcels delivered to the individual retail outlets or to the distribution area of ​​a central warehouse, so that he can adjust his logistics planning accordingly.

[0051] If the recipient is identified on the packages at the time of posting, especially by scanning, the individual recipients can also be communicated to the parcel logistics provider, so that the parcel logistics provider can, for example, immediately recognize a conspicuous cluster of recipients, which he can also take into account in the planning of his future logistics, or which allows him to inform a particular recipient very early on in the case of, for example, a cluster of returns to a particular recipient and thus presumably due to a particular product.

[0052] If the accepted packages also include returned packages from the online shop operated by the supplier of the retail stores, the supplier is informed about these returned packages very early and can react to, for example, an increased number, e.g., by initiating quality checks and / or product recalls.

[0053] If, upon receipt of the packages, the physical data of the package is also determined, such as weight and / or dimensions, in particular the shape of the package, and this is additionally communicated to the package logistics provider - or in the latter case to the operator of the retail stores and the affiliated online shop - this can also be used to deduce which returned product is in the respective packages, and to detect an increased return of a specific product very early and react accordingly.

[0054] Knowing the weight and / or dimensions, and especially the shape, of the packages is also advantageous for planning transport capacities.

[0055] To verify the evaluation results from the above-mentioned findings, additional plausibility checks can be carried out, especially at the receiving station: For example, when a filled collection container is removed from the parcel receiving station, its weight can be determined, for instance by placing the collection container that is currently in use, i.e., into which the submitted parcels fall after passing through the input channel, on a scale and weighing it continuously and / or by weighing the individual parcels beforehand as they pass through.

[0056] The weight of the removed, filled collection container can then be compared with the sum of the weights of the parcels dropped off since this collection container was placed in the acceptance station, and if there is a relevant difference, this suggests a malfunction of the acceptance station or a theft, for example, that a dropped-off parcel is no longer in the collection container.

[0057] The same procedure can be performed when checking the fill volume of the collection container and determining the volume of the submitted packages, but is more prone to errors if the packages fall freely into the collection container, thus forming a loose bulk with more or less large gaps.

[0058] When packages are returned, customers often face the problem that they do not have the appropriate packaging materials at home to properly repackage such a package for return shipping.

[0059] In this case, it is convenient for the customer if the appropriate packaging material is provided at the location of the shared parcel return station, for example adhesive tape and / or packing paper and / or folding boxes in various sizes, even if this is not provided free of charge or, especially in the case of whole folding boxes, only against payment.

[0060] The receiving station can also be used by customers to donate to local food banks that distribute food or meals free of charge to people in need: either in the form of goods, by placing food – preferably previously purchased in the retail store – preferably pre-packaged as a parcel into the input opening of the shared parcel receiving station and selecting one of the food banks available there as the recipient at the control unit, whereupon the donated goods are automatically deposited in a donation container.

[0061] Alternatively, these goods do not necessarily have to be physically placed in the input opening; instead, the customer can simply declare certain goods offered in the adjacent retail store as a donation to the food bank at the control unit and pay for them there.

[0062] A donation in this form can then be placed – usually manually by the staff of the retail store – into the donation container for the food bank in the deposit room or logistics room, or the food bank will receive a shopping voucher for the retail store for this amount.

[0063] Since the shared parcel acceptance station preferably operates fully automatically and therefore unmanned, and is thus not subject to constant personal monitoring by the staff of the retail store, automatic monitoring of the acceptance station should be provided, especially if it is located in an exterior wall of the building and can therefore be accessed by unauthorized persons outside of opening hours, even when the barrier at the entrance to the premises is closed.

[0064] Firstly, the receiving station could be equipped with motion detectors and / or acceleration sensors that detect and automatically report unauthorized, strong interference with the receiving station, such as an attempt to break in.

[0065] Preferably, a signal connection to the nearest police station is available, which in this case can approach and inspect the shared parcel acceptance station, i.e., the corresponding retail outlet.

[0066] Consideration should also be given to monitoring the area at and immediately in front of the reception station, by having its recordings constantly monitored by personnel, e.g., a security company.

[0067] The next expansion stage of the receiving station consists of it additionally also including the outputof packages received from parcel logistics companies, to the customer, as at dispensing stations already known today in the form of controlled locker systems.

[0068] At a designated acceptance station, appropriately controlled lockers may also be available for this purpose, each containing a package for the customer, so that the corresponding locker is automatically opened for the customer as soon as they have proven their authorization to receive the package at the control unit, for example by scanning a confirmation of receipt that the customer has received by email and can have scanned by the control unit's scanner, either printed out or from their smartphone, including any markings such as a QR code.

[0069] Instead of the familiar controlled lockers, the customer can also have the corresponding package dispensed via the input channel by operating the conveyor there in reverse and handing over the package placed inside the receiving station at the input opening. Regarding a automatic parcel empty container acceptance station With at least one return machine, this includes an input opening, to which an input channel is preferably connected, and inside the station, i.e., no longer accessible to the customer - by the fact that behind the input opening there is preferably a device to prevent access, i.e., a device to prevent access - one or more collection containers into which the accepted packages that have passed through the input channel are automatically placed, in particular simply fall into.

[0070] For the empty crates, one or more suitable collection containers, usually in the form of simple Euro pallets, are also available.

[0071] For this purpose, a transport device is provided that can move both an empty crate and a package along the input channel and beyond, in the simplest case a chute, but preferably a controlled transport device such as one or more often several conveyor belts, which can be moved by an electrical or electronic control system of the receiving station.

[0072] This allows another conveyor belt to connect to the existing conveyor belt in the input channel, which transports in a transverse direction, for example along a wall of the room in which the back of the receiving machine is located.

[0073] In order to be able to handle packages and empty crates separately - preferably from the end of the input channel - the transport device has a switch to branch into a transport route for packages and a transport route for empty crates.

[0074] Preferably, the two transport routes are arranged one above the other to save floor space.

[0075] The parts of the transport device (2), in particular its conveyor belts (2), which run horizontally, can be designed to be foldable in order to create an inspection passage for personnel, for example by making the individual conveyor belts pivotable, in particular about a pivot axis running in their transport direction.

[0076] Since the beginning of the transport device in the input channel is used for both empty crates and packages, the section there, especially the conveyor belt there, could be contaminated by residual liquids from empty crates.

[0077] To prevent a package from becoming soiled, a document dispenser for a waterproof mat can be provided, which, after the customer announces a package drop-off at the operating unit, automatically places a waterproof, dirt-repellent mat, e.g., a piece of foil or waterproof paper, on the conveyor, preferably pulled and cut from a supply roll.

[0078] Additionally or instead, an automatic cleaning device for the transport device may be present in the input channel, which is activated particularly when a package drop-off is announced.

[0079] The accumulation of contaminants, particularly liquids, on a conveyor belt can be minimized by using several parallel and synchronously driven conveyor belts instead of a single conveyor belt. Preferably, the upper surface of these belts has little or no horizontal area on which liquid can accumulate. For example, the conveyor belts could have a triangular cross-section.

[0080] Such belts can be kept particularly easy to clean using a cleaning device, for example by blowing them off with compressed air.

[0081] Such a receiving station, in particular each individual return machine, furthermore has a scanner for reading the package information indicated on the package, in particular on its label, namely at least the logistics provider identifier present on the package, which indicates the logistics provider who has to transport this package and which is preferably applied there in the form of a QR code or a barcode or another optically detectable marking.

[0082] This identifier is preferably applied in such a way or so often that the logistics provider's identifier is recognizable from all sides of the package, e.g. in the form of a transparent, in particular circumferential, band for recognizability over 360° of the package's circumference, by printing the logistics provider's identifier continuously on the band.

[0083] This saves the customer from having to manually enter the relevant parcel logistics provider, for example via the keyboard of a control unit, which is always prone to errors.

[0084] The scanner and / or conveyor should then also be designed to identify the company (i.e., bottler) from which an empty crate originates, and the height of the bottles should also be detectable to determine whether there are any incorrect bottles in the crate.

[0085] The scanner is preferably arranged along the input channel, i.e., in any case at or behind the input opening, preferably several scanners at several points around the circumference of the input opening or the input channel, or a movable scanner, so that such a marking can be read regardless of which visible side of the package it is on, except possibly the underside.

[0086] A transparent conveyor belt can also be helpful in this context, as markings on the underside of the placed object can then be detected using a suitable scanner or camera under the conveyor belt.

[0087] Such a scanner can also be part of an operating unit, either instead and / or additionally, but this requires the customer to manually hold the package with this marking up to the scanner.

[0088] Such a control unit may also have a screen, in particular in the form of a touch-sensitive screen, i.e. a touch display, and / or a keyboard or other input means for entering information to the control of the receiving station.

[0089] Furthermore, such a control unit should include a payment unit for cashless payments in particular, for example an EC terminal or a credit card terminal, as well as a dispensing device with which an acceptance receipt created by the acceptance station regarding the acceptance of the package is issued to the customer after the package is irrevocably in the package acceptance station and can no longer be retained or withdrawn by the customer.

[0090] For the reasons outlined above, the receiving station should have a scale for weighing the submitted parcel, especially under the transport device in the input channel, which should of course be connected to the control system of the receiving station via a signal.

[0091] Furthermore, additional measuring devices may be present on or within the input channel to determine the dimensions, particularly the largest dimension, and thus the volume or even the shape of the package. Especially when this measuring device is coupled with the targeted control of the transport device's movement, the complete dimensions of the package can be determined using simple distance sensors.

[0092] For example, a distance sensor above the transport device can be used not only to determine the height of the package, but also to determine the beginning and end of the package as it passes through, and the length of the package in the direction of travel can be determined by measuring the distance traveled by the transport device between these points in time.

[0093] Furthermore, a position sensor and / or a motion sensor may be present, preferably along the input channel. The position sensor can determine whether the package is already behind the access barrier and thus irrevocably inside the receiving station, whereupon the customer can be issued a delivery receipt.

[0094] A motion sensor can be used to check whether the package is moving in a direction and at a speed that does not correspond to the direction or speed of the transport device on which it is located. This could occur, for example, if the customer moves the empty crate or the package, perhaps by trying to pull it back, e.g., using a string attached to it. Especially with high-value items, this could incentivize the customer to obtain a drop-off receipt for the package without actually bringing it into the receiving station.

[0095] Furthermore, a fill level sensor may be provided for the at least one collection container in use, for example at the rear of the receiving station, such as at or below the rear end of the input channel, so that when it is full, it can be replaced by the staff of the retail store with an empty one.

[0096] A bomb detector can also be used to identify and sort out or refuse delivery of parcel bombs, whereby the police and the staff of the retail store are informed simultaneously and preferably automatically.

[0097] If the parcels are to be sorted according to logistics providers at the individual receiving stations, there should be various collection containers assigned to the individual parcel logistics providers, and the receiving station should include an automatic switch to direct a parcel to the correct collection container depending on the logistics provider identifier recognized on the parcel.

[0098] For the reasons stated above, the receiving station may also include automatic dispensing of packaging material, in particular packing paper and / or adhesive tape, and preferably also a work table on which the customer can finish packing their incomplete package.

[0099] The security monitoring of the receiving station can include at least one camera that films the front and / or back of the parcel receiving station as well as the area in front of the station and / or motion detectors or acceleration sensors that are either connected to a security company or directly to the nearest police station via data technology.

[0100] As a safety feature for the customer, an emergency button should be provided, preferably so close to the input opening that he can still activate it while holding the package in the input opening with one hand, so that he can simultaneously activate the emergency button with the other hand, for example in case he should have become caught in the transport device or the access protection.

[0101] The emergency button is preferably connected via signaling technology to the staff of the retail store and, outside of its opening hours, to a security service.

[0102] Regarding the Retail store This task is solved by including a shared parcel return station, as described above.

[0103] The receiving station can be located inside the building of the retail store, and if there is a separate return room from the retail area, for example for the return of deposit containers, preferably in this return room.

[0104] However, the acceptance station can also be located in an outer wall of the building, so that the customer does not have to enter the building to use it.

[0105] The receiving station can also be located as a separate building on the premises of the retail store, away from the retail store building, but preferably as close to it as possible, since the premises are usually much larger than the store building itself, especially because they have a larger number of parking spaces.

[0106] In particular, the shared parcel acceptance station can also be designed as a drive-in station on the premises of the retail store, so that one can drive the car so close to the input opening and the correspondingly arranged control unit that, while sitting in the car, one can place the parcel into the input opening through the open window of the driver's seat and operate the control unit.

[0107] This allows the customer to avoid leaving their vehicle, which they will perceive as a safety advantage, especially in the dark.

[0108] The security equipment of the shared parcel acceptance station is preferably part of the security equipment of the retail store, so that the connection to a security company and / or a police station is only needed once. c) Examples of implementation

[0109] Embodiments according to the invention are described in more detail below by way of example. The figures show: Figure 1: a parcel return station with the return machine and a first design of the transport device, as well as a parcel service station next to it in the front view, Figure 2a: a retail store with a deposit return room and a parcel return machine under supervision, Figure 2b: a detailed enlargement from Figure 2a , where empty crates and packages are transported away from the input channel in different directions, Figure 3a:Supervision of a return room and adjacent deposit room, where empty crates and packages are transported from the input channel in the same direction in a second building form. Figure 3b: a side view of the transport device according to Figure 3a with different transport routes stacked on top of each other according to line B - B in Figure 3a , Figure 3c: a front view of the transport device according to Figure 3b according to line C - C in Figure 3b , Figure 4a: a monitoring system for a return room and adjacent deposit room, where empty crates and packages are transported from the input channel in the same direction, but in a third construction form, Figure 4b: a side view of the transport device according to Figure 3a with different transport routes stacked on top of each other according to line B - B in Figure 4a .

[0110] Figure 1This shows an example of a front view of a PL-AS parcel return station, as it appears to customer K when in use: This includes, firstly, the input opening 1, to which, in the direction of the Figure 1 an input channel 1' is connected, and into which the customer K places his parcel P to be sent or an empty crate L filled with empty bottles F, onto a transport device 2 in the form of a conveyor belt running backwards in this input channel 1' in the direction of view.

[0111] In addition, there is an operating unit 10 with a screen, i.e. display 5, which is usually designed as a touch-sensitive screen, as well as a keyboard 6 and preferably a camera 32, usually only the size of a pinhead, which is directed towards the customer K.

[0112] The operating unit 10 also generally includes a payment unit 8 - which usually functions without cash - for example an EC and / or credit card terminal 8 for inserting a card and a receipt generator 3, via which the customer receives a receipt after dropping off his package P.

[0113] Preferably, the operating unit 10 is also equipped with a scanner 4.1, for example in the form of a QR code reader or barcode reader, in order to be able to read the QR code or barcode on accompanying documents of the package P, for example a return order from the logistics provider.

[0114] The control system for the entire parcel return station PL-AS, which is not shown, is preferably housed in a protected manner within the housing of the operating unit 10, and is particularly accessible from its rear.

[0115] Furthermore, an emergency button 16 is available at the parcel return station PL-AS, either as part of the operating unit 10 or separately in a conspicuous location, also near the input opening 1, which the customer K can activate if, for example, a malfunction of the acceptance machine 20 occurs when dropping off the parcel P, and with which he can alert staff of the retail store WVF.

[0116] The input channel 1' can have further equipment features that facilitate the handling of packages P and empty crates L for the operator of the parcel return station PL-AS: Since the weight of the package P is of interest, a scale 7 can be installed, preferably in conjunction with the conveyor belt 2, which weighs the package P or empty crate L placed on it as it is transported into and through the input channel 1' until it falls into the collection container S - as in Figure 2a , bRecognizable – weight. With the empty crate size L, the weight can be used to determine, among other things, whether it is correctly filled with bottles.

[0117] Furthermore, an explosives sensor may be present that can detect whether the package placed in input channel 1 contains explosives. If so, the police are automatically informed, branch staff are warned, and the scanner preferably scans the entire package.

[0118] Since the dimensions of the individual packages P or an entered empty crate L are also of interest, an automatic measuring device 11 can be provided for this purpose, in this case divided into a first measuring device 11.1, which extends in a side wall of the input channel 1' over its entire height and determines the height of the placed object, and a second measuring device 11.2, which extends in the ceiling wall of the input channel 1' essentially over its entire width and determines the width of the placed object.

[0119] If the height and width are determined during the movement of the package P through input channel 1', one of the two measuring devices 11.1, 11.2 can also be designed such that the beginning and end of the package P are determined during its passage, and thus the length of the placed object in the direction of view. Figure 1 is determined.

[0120] Furthermore, a motion sensor 13 can be present in input channel 1', which measures the movement of the object lying on the conveyor belt 2, so that the control can recognize whether the object is moving synchronously with the conveyor belt 2.

[0121] If this is not the case, the control system preferably emits an alarm signal, because there is slippage between conveyor belt 2 and the object that needs to be identified, as this could be due to contamination of conveyor belt 2, an obstacle in input channel 1', or the fact that the object is being deliberately held or pulled back from the front.

[0122] Furthermore, a scanner 4.2, 4.3 can also be arranged on one or more of the perimeter walls of the entrance channel 1' to detect markings on one of the outer sides of the empty container box L or the package P, in particular QR codes, barcodes or other imprints or markings that identify in particular the package logistics provider who has to transport this package P or the filler of the empty container.

[0123] Figure 1Figure 28 also shows a backing dispenser 28 in the form of a supply roll for a waterproof film or paper web, which is arranged laterally next to the input channel 1' inside the return machine 20 with its roll axis in the direction of travel of the input channel 1'. When the drop-off of a package P in the input channel 1' is announced – for example, by the customer K via the operating unit 10 – the free end of the film web is pulled across the discharge conveyor 2 by means of a carriage or slide 29 movable transversely to the conveying direction in the input channel 1' and cut off on the side of the supply roll next to the discharge conveyor 2, so that the cut-off piece serves as a clean backing U on which the package P can be placed.

[0124] Furthermore, the front of the acceptance machine 20 may have another, considerably smaller, input opening 21 with a rearward-extending input channel 21' for inserting individual deposit-bearing, non-refillable beverage containers 19, i.e., generally plastic bottles 19 or aluminum or tin cans 19. The cross-section of the input opening 21 is dimensioned such that such a beverage container 19 can be inserted into it with its end facing forward.

[0125] Otherwise, the input channel 21' is equipped analogously to the input channel 1': Along its input channel 21', however, there is not just one, but two conveyor belts 18, the upper sides of which are V-shaped and angled to each other, thus centering a container 19 with a usually circular cross-section between them.

[0126] A scanner 4.4 is arranged around the circumference of the input channel 21' to detect the deposit mark on the beverage container 19. For this purpose, a rotating device (not shown) is also provided in the input channel 21', which is capable of lifting a container 19 lying on the conveyor belts 18 from them and rotating it about its horizontal axis of symmetry, thus moving the deposit symbol past the scanner 4.4.

[0127] In the event that a customer K arrives at the parcel return station PL-AS with a parcel P that is not yet fully sealed or packaged, the necessary equipment for this will be provided to the customer K at a parcel service station 23 located next to the acceptance machine 20, in the form of a work table 14, as well as in Figure 1 and 2adrawn or a fold-out or - in particular from the PL-AS, preferably under its input opening 1 - extendable work surface, dispensers for packaging material 15 such as wrapping paper 15.1 and adhesive tape 15.2, which can be pulled from a corresponding dispensing slot from a supply roll behind it and removed after tearing for the finished packaging of the package P.

[0128] If the parcel return station PL-AS is also to serve as a parcel dispensing station, the shared parcel return station PL-AS can have lockable dispensing compartments 17 for this purpose, of which in Figure 1Only two items are shown, and each is filled from the back by the staff of the goods sales branch WVF with a package to be collected, so that after the customer K enters certain authorization data at the control unit 10, the door in the front of the output compartment 17 in the front of the package return station PL-AS is opened for the customer K, so that he can take his package P contained therein.

[0129] Alternatively, customer K's package P can also be issued via input channel 1', which then functions as an output channel by driving the transport device, such as the conveyor belt 2, towards opening 1, after the correct package P, belonging to customer K, is automatically placed on the conveyor belt 2 from the rear of the package return station PL-AS and moved forward to customer K from a storage memory for stored packages (not shown).

[0130] The packages P dropped off at each PL-AS, i.e. at each WVF, are transported by the goods trucks delivering the goods there on their return journey to the central goods warehouse WZL of the operator of the WVF, for which there is also enough storage space available in the goods truck.

[0131] Preferably only at the WZL are these returned parcels sorted according to the individual parcel logistics companies and - usually by the respective parcel logistics company itself - picked up from the WZL and usually transported to the nearest, own parcel central warehouse PZL of the parcel logistics company.

[0132] If the parcel logistics provider already performs sorting according to the recipients or receiving areas of these parcels in the WZL (Warehouse Production Center), the corresponding parcel tranches can already be specifically directed to the nearest PZL (Parcel Center).

[0133] Figure 2ashows two possible arrangements of a parcel return station (PL-AS) in a retail store (WVF): The one in Figure 2a The area shown in the plan view, with a building of a retail outlet WVF, which is not depicted in a realistic size distribution, is divided into the retail sales area WVF.1 - which as a rule occupies by far the largest part of the floor area of ​​the retail outlet WVF - with an adjacent entrance and exit area, through which the customers K enter and leave the retail sales area WVF.1.

[0134] Usually located next to the entrance area, but generally separate from it, is a return room WVF.3, in which a return machine 18 for deposit containers is located, usually recessed in a wall of the return room WVF.3, so that the back of the acceptance machine 20 is accessible to the staff of the retail branch WVF, preferably from a deposit room WVF.4, which adjoins the back of the acceptance machine 20.

[0135] A logistics room WVF.2, in which pallets or roll containers with new goods W, delivered by the goods trucks W-trucks, are temporarily stored before being brought to the sales room WVF.1 and the goods being placed on the shelves there, is often located next to the deposit room WVF.4 and in some cases may also be identical to it.

[0136] In the logistics room WVF.2 and / or the deposit room WVF.4, items are often temporarily stored that need to be loaded onto the goods truck W-truck after the goods W have been unloaded, so that it can take them back to the central goods warehouse WZL on its return journey, for example collection containers S filled with returned deposit containers, but also returned goods and similar items.

[0137] The receiving station PL-AS can also be located in the return room WVF.3 as a first option, preferably again recessed into a wall there, preferably next to the receiving machine 20, so that the rear of the parcel return station PL-AS is also accessible to the staff from the rear, namely from the deposit room WVF.4, for example to remove a collection container SP filled with dropped-off parcels from the rear of the parcel return station PL-AS and to place a new, empty collection container SP there.

[0138] The parcel return station PL-AS can also be located in an outer wall of the building of the retail store WVF, preferably again in such a way that the back of the parcel return station PL-AS is accessible to staff from inside the building, preferably from the logistics room WVF.2.

[0139] After temporary storage in logistics room WVF.2, the filled collection containers S are also taken back to the central goods warehouse by the goods trucks W-trucks.

[0140] The entrance door to the returns room WVF.3 is usually only open at the same times as the entrance to the merchandise sales room WVF.1.

[0141] The site 50, on which the retail branch WVF is located, is usually enclosed, i.e., fenced in, and the access to the site 50, on which the parking spaces 52 for customers K are also located, can usually be closed by an access restriction such as a barrier 51.

[0142] Customers K therefore normally only have access to the parcel return station PL-AS, which is located in the return room WVF.3, during the opening hours of the retail store WVF, unless the entrance door to the return room WVF.3 is left open longer than the entrance to the retail store WVF.1.

[0143] If, on the other hand, the parcel return station PL-AS is located in an exterior wall of the building of the retail outlet WVF – or even in a separate building on site 50 of the retail outlet WVF – this opens up the possibility of keeping the access restriction, such as barrier 51, open longer than the opening hours of the retail outlet WVF.1 of the retail outlet WVF, and thus allowing customer K to use the parcel return station PL-AS for an even longer period than the opening hours of the retail outlet WVF.1.

[0144] The supervision of Figure 2a in particular the detailed enlargement from this according to Figure 2bshow how the items passing through the input channels 1', 21' of the receiving machine 20 are handled: Immediately behind the back of the receiving machine 20, a conveyor belt 23 runs at or just below the level of the input channel 1' for the large items, i.e. packages P and empty crates L, so that an item that is pushed out of the input channel 1' by means of its conveyor belt 2 is on the conveyor belt 23.

[0145] This can be driven in both directions. If an empty crate L is detected in input channel 1', the conveyor belt 23 is driven to one side, to the left in this figure, and the empty crate L is fed to a collection container SL for such empty crates L, which is located directly behind the left end of the assembly 23, and which is usually a simple Euro pallet on which the empty crates L are stacked.

[0146] If a package P and the logistics provider that is to transport this package P are detected in input channel 1', the conveyor belt 23 with the package P on it is driven in the other direction, in this figure to the right, where directly next to the conveyor belt 23, for example, several collection containers SP1, SP2, SP3 are lined up, each of which is assigned to a specific package logistics provider and whose upper edge facing the conveyor belt 23 is at the level of or just below the surface of the conveyor belt 23.

[0147] This allows a package from conveyor belt 23 to be automatically diverted by the control system into the correct collection container by means of controllable switches 22 in the form of switching flaps arranged at the level of each collection container next to the conveyor belt 23, which can be adjusted diagonally into the path of movement of the package P and divert it into the corresponding collection container.

[0148] Additionally, a light barrier may be provided which detects that after the drop no package P remains on the conveyor belt 23, whereupon the switch or switching flap 22 can be returned to its initial state.

[0149] Since the input channel 1' is located relatively far down, the conveyor belt 23 can have an incline towards the collection containers SL and SP1, SP2 located on its two sides.

[0150] Significantly higher, as it is located above this input channel 1' in the receiving machine 20, is the input channel 21' for individual beverage containers 19.

[0151] Therefore, they can pass through their input channel 21' and then be transported at the same level by means of a transport device over the conveyor belt 23, so that they fall into a collection container SB for beverage containers 19 located behind it.

[0152] Each of the collection containers SL, SB, SP1, SP2, SP3 can be assigned a fill level sensor 9, which can be attached to the receiving machine 20 or the conveyor belt 23 or permanently in the deposit room WVF.4.

[0153] Figure 3aThe diagram shows a differently constructed parcel return station PL-AS from above, with sections of the return room WVF.3 and the deposit room WVF.4. The return machine 20 is the same, but the transport device 2 for the parcels P or empty crates L deposited there is designed differently from the input channel 1' onwards: Transport along the input channel 1' is carried out by a first conveyor belt 23.1, which transfers the item lying on it at the end of the input channel 1' in the deposit room WVF.4 to a conveyor belt 23.2 running transversely to it. This conveyor belt then transfers the item to a third conveyor belt 23.3, which also runs transversely to it, i.e., in the same transport direction as conveyor belt 23.1 in the input channel 1'. In this case, the third conveyor belt runs along the inside of a wall, in particular an outer wall, of the deposit room WVF.4.

[0154] How Figure 3bAs shown, the object lying on this conveyor belt 23.3 - which preferably still runs at the level of the underside of the input channel 1' - is scanned by a scanner 4.5 and it is determined whether it is a package P or an empty crate L, in the latter case whether the empty crate L is complete and filled with the correct type of bottles F.

[0155] Downstream of the third conveyor belt 23.3, the transport device 2 splits into two different conveyor sections 2a for packages P and 2b for empty crates L, both of which are again designed as conveyor belts 23.5, 23.6, which run one above the other at different heights, with conveyor belt 23.6 of the transport section 2b for empty crates L being an extension of and at the same height as the third conveyor belt 23.3.

[0156] Between these two, i.e. 23.3 and 23.6, a pivoting rocker belt 30 may be present, which, in the deactivated state, horizontally connects these two conveyor belts 23.3 and 23.4 if the delivered item is an empty crate L.

[0157] In the case of a delivered package P, the downstream end of this fourth conveyor belt 23.4, designed as a rocker belt 30, is raised by an adjusting unit 31, such as an adjusting cylinder 31, to such an extent that its end is at the level of the conveyor belt 23.5 of the transport section 2a for packages, i.e. the package P is transported from the lower level of the conveyor belt 23.3 to the higher level of the conveyor belt 23.5 and transferred to it.

[0158] While the empty crates L transported on conveyor belt 23.6 to its end are restacked there – usually manually – onto a Euro pallet as a collection container SL, the packages P transported along the upper conveyor belt 23.5 are automatically dropped by means of control-controlled flaps 22 into the correct collection container SP1, SP2 or SP3 for the corresponding package logistics provider, which was recognized by scanner 4.5, analogous to the procedure of the Figures 2a , b.

[0159] Here too in Figure 3a These collection containers SP1 - SP3 are arranged one after the other along conveyor belt 23.5.

[0160] The SL collection container for empty crates L can be located in the same row as the SP collection containers, and the 23.6 conveyor belt can even be longer than the 23.5 conveyor belt for the P packages – as shown in Figure 3a depicted - or even end earlier, as in Figure 3b depicted.

[0161] To provide an inspection passage for maintenance work between the wall and the collection containers, the conveyor belts 23.5 and 23.6 are preferably connected to the conveyor belt 23.3 and the conveyor belt 23.4, as shown in Figure 3c shown cantilevered on one side and attached to the wall, and can be pivoted upwards about a pivot axis 23' running in their transport direction, lying close to the wall, so that such an inspection passage is freed between the pivoted conveyor belts and the collection containers e.g. SP1.

[0162] Between the folded-up conveyor belts and the wall are also the deactivated, wall-mounted switching flaps 22 next to the upper conveyor belt 23.5 for the packages, wherein in Figure 3c The visible switching flap 22 is shown in the activated, diverting state.

[0163] Preferably the switching flaps 22 are mounted in the same support element attached to the wall, in which the conveyor belt 23.5, in particular its end deflection rollers, are also mounted pivotably about the pivot axis 23'.

[0164] In contrast, the Figures 4a , b in top view as well as in side view according to the Figures 3a , b a solution in which the packages P are not yet pre-sorted according to parcel logistics companies, but all fall into the same collection container SP for packages P, so that the conveyor belt 23.5 is very short in this case.

[0165] A side effect is that more length is then available along conveyor belts 23.5, 23.6 for providing different collection containers SL1, SL2, SL3 for the empty crates L from different suppliers or fillers, and accordingly the lower conveyor belt 23.6 for the transport route 2b for empty crates L can be designed to be relatively long. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0166] 1 Input opening for parcel / empty crate 1' Input channel for parcel / empty crate 2 Transport device, conveyor belt 2a, b Conveyor section 3 Receipt generator, printer 4.1 - 4.4 Scanner 5 Display 6 Keyboard, real or virtual, displayed on the screen 7 Scale 8 Payment unit 9 Fill level sensor 10 Control unit 11 Measuring device 11.1, 11.2 Measuring device 12 Output unit (for packaging material) 13 Position sensor, motion sensor 14 Work table 15 Packaging material 15.1 Wrapping paper 15.2 Adhesive tape 16 Emergency button 17 Output tray 18 Conveyor belt 19 Beverage container 20 Acceptance machine for deposit containers and empty crates 21 Input opening for deposit bottles 21' Input channel Deposit bottles 22 Switch, switching flap 23 Conveyor belt 24 Parcel service station 25 Explosive sensor 26 Swivel axis 27 Cleaning device 28 Document dispenser 29 Slide 30 Conveyor belt switch, rocker belt 31 Adjustment unit, adjustment cylinder 32 Camera FBottle LEmpty crate KKcustomer PParcel PL-ASParcel-Empty-Receipt Station PZLParcel-Central Warehouse PLParcel-Logistician S, SL, SBCollection Container SP1 - SP3Collection Container UUnderlay WWare W-TruckWare-Truck WVFWare-Sales Branch WVF.1Sales Room WVF.2Logistics Room WVF.3Return Room WVF.4Deposit Room WZLWare-Central Warehouse

Claims

1. Method for receiving parcels (P) to be sent and empty packaging boxes (L) to be received by goods sales outlets (WVF) by means of the same automatic parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), wherein a) a parcel (P) in particular returns parcel (P), or an empty packaging box (L) is dropped off by a customer (K), through an input opening (1), in an input channel (1') of the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), and b) the receiving station (P-L-AS) preferably automatically identifies whether it is a parcel (P) or an empty packaging box (L), c) and in the case of an empty packaging box (L) - this is automatically checked for complete, correct filling with bottles (F), - the customer (K) is issued with a deposit receipt in paper form or online, d) in the case of a parcel (P) - the parcel information present on the parcel (P), in particular on its label, is automatically scanned, and - the customer (K) is issued with a drop-off receipt in paper form or online, e) both types of receipt are created using the same receipt generator (3) of the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), and f) in the case of a parcel (P), in particular upon request by the customer (K), a waterproof underlay (U) is automatically laid down on a conveyor device (2) in the input channel (1') before the parcel (P) is dropped off, and / or the conveyor device (2) is automatically cleaned.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterised in that in the case of a parcel (P) a check is made as to - whether it is adequately franked or the recipient is paying the postage, and / or - whether it contains explosives or has traces of explosives.

3. Method according to either claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that after the decision as to whether the object dropped off in the input channel (1') is a parcel (P) or an empty packaging box (L) - these are transported further via conveying paths (2a, b) that are separated in each case.

4. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that - the parcels (P) are sorted, in particular in the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) or the goods sales outlet (WVF), at least according to the different parcel logistics specialists (PL) and - are delivered to the individual parcel logistics specialists (PL), - in particular are transported to the parcel central stores (PZL) of the individual parcel logistics specialists (PL).

5. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that in the case of drop-off of a parcel (P), the drop-off receipt records - the drop-off time, and / or - the parcel logistics specialist (PL) specified on the parcel (P), and / or - a consignment identification, with the aid of which it is possible for the customer to track the parcel (P) online.

6. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that - the parcel (P) is automatically supplied to a storage container (SP1, SP2) for parcels, in particular for the parcel logistics specialists (PL1, PL2) determined in the process, in the goods sales outlet (WVF), and / or - the parcel logistics specialist (PL) is informed, in particular just-in-time, of the number of parcels (P) dropped off in each goods sales outlet (WVF) or in the distribution region of a goods central store (WZL), - in particular subdivided by recipients, - in particular specifying the consignment identification of the specific parcel (P), and / or - the parcel returns (Pr) of the sales outlet's own online shop are determined and said shop is informed in good time of the number of returns present, in particular specifying the consignment identification of the specific parcel (P).

7. Method according to claim 6, characterised in that upon input into the receiving station (P-L-AS), - the weight, and / or - the measurements, in particular the maximum dimensions, and / or - the shape of the parcel (P) are determined automatically, and / or - this information is additionally transmitted to the parcel logistics specialist (PL), in particular just-in-time.

8. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the parcels (P) are paid for, in particular franked, with respect to the postage costs, at or in the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), - in particular the postage costs are paid, preferably cashlessly, by the customer (K) at the receiving station (P-L-AS) or in particular in advance online, and / or - in particular after the customer (K) has selected the desired parcel logistics specialist (PL), which is done at the latest at the receiving station (P-L-AS).

9. Method according to claim 8, characterised in that if a parcel logistics specialist (PL) is not yet definitively specified on the input parcel (P), - the customer (K) is informed of the respective postage costs of the different parcel logistics specialists (PL1, PL2) available at the receiving station (P-L-AS) for the sending of said parcel (P), in particular also the transport time until said parcel is delivered to the recipient, - the customer (K) selects one of these parcel logistics specialists (PL1, PL2).

10. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that packaging material (15), in particular adhesive tape (15.2) and / or wrapping paper (15.1) and / or collapsible cardboard boxes are made available to the customer (K) at the receiving station (P-L-AS) for self-service, free of charge or for payment, in the latter case by automatic release after payment.

11. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that - when a filled storage container (SP) for parcels (P) is removed from the receiving station (P-L-AS) at least one plausibility check is carried out with regard to the filling of the storage container (SP), - in particular the weight and / or volume of the filling, of parcels (P), contained in the storage container (SP), is compared with the weight and / or volume of the parcels (P) received at the receiving station (P-L-AS), in particular for this storage container (SP1, SP2), - in the case of a negative result of the comparison, an alarm signal is output to the staff responsible for the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS).

12. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that - the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) is monitored with respect to safety, - in particular is in automatic signal connection with the closest police station.

13. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that - the customer (K) lays one or more goods (W) into the input opening (1) and declares these goods (W), at the operating unit (10), to be a donation for the local charity food banks, or - the customer (K) assigns and pays for one or more goods (W) at the operating unit (10) as a donation for the food banks, - the input or assigned goods (W) are thereupon supplied, in particular automatically, to a donations container for the food banks, which is preferably located in the logistics space (WVF.2).

14. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) automatically issues a parcel (P) to the customer (K), in particular by opening an issuing compartment (17) in which the parcel (P) is located, - in particular a parcel (P) which contains, usually high-cost, goods (W) purchased and paid for in advance by the customer in the relevant goods sales outlet (WVF), and / or - in particular a parcel (P) delivered by a parcel logistics specialist (PL) to the parcel receiving station (P-L-AS) for the customer.

15. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) comprising - at least one storage container (SP) for the parcels (P), - at least one storage container (SL) for the empty packaging boxes (L), - an automatic receiving machine (20) for parcels (P) and empty packaging boxes (L) which comprises - an input opening (1) for a parcel (P) or an empty packaging box (L) having an adjoining input channel (1'), - an internal transport device (2), in particular a chute or a conveyor belt (2), from the input opening (1) through the input channel (1') to the storage container (SP, SL) for parcels (P) or empty packaging boxes (L), - a receipt generator (3) for generating a parcel drop-off receipt or an empty packaging drop-off receipt, - at least one scanner (4) for reading the parcel information specified on the parcel (P), in particular on its label, the scanner (4) being designed to detect - the logistics specialist identification, present on the parcel (P), in particular on its label, of one of a plurality of specific parcel logistics specialists (PL), and / or a recipient identification of a specific recipient, in particular of an online retailer, in particular in the form of a QR code or barcode, - the completeness of the filling and / or the origin of the empty packaging box (L), - in the case of just one scanner (4), this is designed to fulfil both the above tasks, and the transport device (2) comprises, in the input channel (1'), an underlay dispenser (28) for a waterproof underlay and / or an automatic cleaning device (27) for the transport device (2).

16. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to claim 15, characterised in that - the internal transport device (2) comprises points (22), as close as possible downstream of the input channel (1') for branching into a transport path (2a) for parcels (P) and a transport path (2b) for empty packaging boxes (L), - in particular the two transport paths (2a, b) are arranged one above the other, and / or - the, in particular horizontally extending, parts of the transport device (2), in particular conveyor belts (2), are designed to be pivotable, in particular about a pivot axis (26) extending in their transport direction (2'), for creating a review aisle.

17. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to either claim 15 or claim 16, characterised in that the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), in particular the automatic receiving machine (20), comprises - scales (7) for weighing the object placed thereon and / or - a cashless payment unit (8), in particular an EC terminal (8), and / or - a fill level sensor (9) for the at least one storage container (SP and / or SL and / or SB), and / or - an explosives sensor (25), and / or the automatic receiving machine (20) has a smaller input opening (21) compared with the input opening (1) for a parcel (P) or an empty packaging box (L), having an input channel (21') adjoining behind it, for input of individual drinks containers (19) with a deposit, having their end face in front.

18. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to any of claims 15-17, characterised in that the receiving station (P-L-AS), in particular the automatic receiving machine (20), comprises - a measuring device (11) for automatically determining the measurements, in particular the largest dimensions, and / or the shape of the parcel (P) and / or of the empty packaging box (L), and / or - an operating unit (10) comprising a screen (5), in particular a touch display (5), and / or - an access protection means behind the input opening (1) at the start of the input channel (1') that begins therebehind, and / or - a position sensor (13) and / or movement sensor (13) for determining the position and / or movement of a parcel (P) or an empty packaging box (4) located in the input channel (1').

19. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to any of claims 15-18, characterised in that the receiving station (P-L-AS) comprises - a parcel service station (24) comprising an output unit (12) for packaging material (15).

20. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to any of claims 15-19, characterised in that - a plurality of storage containers (SP1, SP2) for parcels (P), associated with different parcel logistics specialists (PL1, PL2), are present, and / or - at least one automatic set of points (22) is present for automatically supplying a parcel (P) to a logistics specialist-specific storage container (SP1), depending on the scanned logistics specialist identification.

21. Parcel / empty packaging receiving station according to any of claims 15-20, characterised in that a safety-related monitoring system is present, which in particular comprises - at least one camera, in particular coupled with a movement detector, which films at least the service side of the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) and its surroundings, and / or - an emergency button (16) which informs the responsible staff when triggered, and / or - an automatic signal connection to the closest police station.

22. Goods sales outlet (WVF), characterised in that - the goods sales outlet (WVF) comprises a parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS) according to any of the preceding claims 15-21, - in particular a safety-related monitoring system is present for the goods sales outlet (WVF), which in particular also comprises the safety-related monitoring system for the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS), - which in particular also includes the local region of the parcel / empty packaging receiving station (P-L-AS).

23. Goods sales outlet according to claim 22, comprising - a main building with a sales space (WVF.1) for goods therein, characterised in that the receiving station (P-L-AS) is arranged - in a returns space (WVF.3) that can be separated from the sales space (WVF.1), and / or - in an outside wall of the main building that is accessible for the customer (K) from outside the main building, and / or - close to the main building, and / or - is designed as a drive-in station.

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