System for automatically loading and unloading package delivery vehicles and suitable package delivery vehicle therefor

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for automatically loading package delivery vehicles. According to the invention, the system is characterized in that it comprises at least one receiving unit for receiving individual packages, at least one transport unit for transporting individual packages, at least one loading unit for loading package delivery vehicles, and a control component, the package delivery vehicles being equipped with storage devices, which have a plurality of storage positions and are designed such that each storage position is accessible to at least one loading unit such that the loading unit can move packages into the storage position of the storage device, and in that the control component is designed such that it controls the loading process of a package delivery vehicle by the cooperation of the receiving unit, the transport unit and the loading unit, stores information about the depositing of each package and the location of each package in the storage device and makes the information about the location of each package in the storage device accessible to a delivery person upon arrival at a handover point for the package in question before the package is handed over. The invention also relates to a package delivery vehicle suitable for use in the system.

Description

[0001] System for automatic loading and unloading of parcel delivery vehicles and a suitable parcel delivery vehicle for this purpose

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates to a system for the automatic loading and unloading of parcel delivery vehicles and a parcel delivery vehicle suitable for the system.

[0004] Presentation of the state of the art

[0005] Parcel delivery vehicles are, among other things, a component of logistics systems for transporting a large number of parcels to recipients and are used for delivering parcels to recipients.

[0006] In this application, the term logistics system refers to a system that can carry out at least one of the following processing operations on objects, in particular parcels:

[0007] - Delivery

[0008] - Transportation

[0009] - Sorting

[0010] storage

[0011] Picking

[0012] - Delivery.

[0013] A logistics system comprises at least one inbound distribution center, where a parcel is initially sorted for onward transport to the delivery area after being submitted by the sender, and at least one outbound distribution center, where the parcel is sorted to a specific delivery depot after being delivered from the inbound distribution center. The term "delivery depot" refers to the facilities within the logistics system where parcels are sorted for the final time and prepared for delivery routes by parcel delivery vehicles to the recipients.

[0014] Currently, parcel delivery vehicles are loaded manually by the delivery staff at delivery depots before they begin the actual delivery of the parcels to the recipients. The loading process varies depending on the level of automation and mechanization in the logistics service provider's delivery depot. Essentially, three procedures can be distinguished: a) In delivery depots with a low level of automation and mechanization, there is a simple roller conveyor in the middle of the delivery depot, onto which the parcels are placed. The delivery staff or sorting staff stand on either side of the roller conveyor and manually remove the parcels assigned to their route from the roller conveyor, if necessary assisted by light signals projected onto the parcel (so-called sort by light). b) In delivery depots with a medium level of automation and mechanization, the parcels are loaded onto a simple conveyor belt with a throughput of, for example, approx.500 parcels / hour are diverted to end points that cannot accommodate the parcels for a complete tour. Therefore, the parcels are manually loaded into roll containers assigned to the individual tours at the end points and stored there until they are loaded onto the delivery vehicle. c) In delivery depots with a high degree of automation and mechanization, the parcels are automatically sorted into the respective delivery tours during the night with a high throughput of, for example, approximately 6,000 to 7,000 parcels per hour and diverted to end points ("chutes") that can accommodate the parcels for a complete tour of a delivery vehicle.

[0015] With these procedures, it is advisable for the parcels to be made available at a pick-up point for each delivery route and then manually loaded into the parcel delivery vehicle by the delivery staff for the respective delivery route.

[0016] This process is labor- and time-consuming, so there is a high need for further automation.

[0017] Brief description of the invention

[0018] The invention is based on the object of providing a system for the automatic loading of parcel delivery vehicles and a parcel delivery vehicle suitable for the system, so that the loading process of parcel delivery vehicles can be further automated and accelerated. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a system and a parcel delivery vehicle according to the independent claims.

[0019] Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0020] Description of the invention

[0021] The invention relates to a system for automatically loading parcel delivery vehicles with parcels prepared at a pick-up point in a delivery depot for a delivery tour. Several of the parcels are transported in the delivery depot and delivered to the pick-up point as individual parcels.

[0022] In this application, parcels are understood to mean any physical objects that can be transported and preferably do not exceed certain dimensions and / or a certain weight.

[0023] This includes everyday items such as consumables or food, as well as technical items and equipment. Packages include unpackaged items, packaged items, and repackaged items. In the case of packaged and repackaged items, the package includes the packaging or outer packaging and the item contained therein.

[0024] The pick-up point is the position at which the individual parcels assigned to a delivery route are picked from a stream of parcels passing on a roller conveyor, or from a roll container assigned to an individual delivery route, or from a chute assigned to an individual delivery route, or from a conveyor belt assigned to an individual delivery route.

[0025] The system according to the invention is characterized in that the individual parcels are picked up at the pick-up point by means of a pick-up unit, transported to the parcel delivery vehicle by means of a transport unit and brought into storage positions of the storage unit of the parcel delivery vehicle by means of a loading unit, and in that the system has a control component which is set up in such a way that it controls the loading process of a parcel delivery vehicle through the interaction of the pick-up unit, transport unit and loading unit and stores information about the storage of each parcel and the storage position of each parcel in the storage facility and makes the information about the position of each parcel in the storage facility accessible to a deliverer upon reaching a handover location for the respective parcel before the parcel is handed over by transmitting it to the parcel delivery vehicle or a deliverer terminal.

[0026] The individual packages are stored in storage positions of the storage facility, taking into account the package identification features of the individual packages.

[0027] According to the invention, the receiving unit, the transport unit and the loading unit can be designed as separate devices or can be designed in such a way that two of these devices or all three devices are implemented in one device.

[0028] The system according to the invention further comprises a parcel delivery vehicle for handing over a plurality of parcels to a plurality of recipients at different handover points along a delivery route, wherein the parcel delivery vehicle is equipped with storage facilities for storing the parcels, which have a plurality of storage positions and are configured such that at least one loading unit has access to each storage position in such a way that the loading unit can transfer parcels to or from the storage position of the storage facility.

[0029] A useful development of the invention is characterized in that the parcel delivery vehicle has a loading space with storage devices on the side walls that can be loaded with parcels. Side walls are the walls of the loading space whose length extends in the normal direction of travel of the parcel delivery vehicle.

[0030] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the side walls of the loading space are opened before the packages are placed in the storage facility.

[0031] A useful further development of the invention is characterized in that the side walls of the loading space are opened by sliding sliding doors.

[0032] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention provides for the side walls of the loading space to be opened by sliding roller doors. A useful further development of the invention is characterized in that the loading space of the parcel delivery vehicle is completely or partially opened at the rear for loading at a delivery depot.

[0033] When partially opened, the opening is wide enough for the transport units to move in and out of the loading space.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the storage facility is configured so that it can be pulled or driven out of the cargo area of ​​the parcel delivery vehicle. The storage positions are accessible not only from the central aisle but also from the outside, and transport units can transport the parcels to both sides simultaneously for storage in the storage positions.

[0035] Alternatively, the storage facility can be extended (widened) after being pulled out or driven out of the loading area of ​​the parcel delivery vehicle. The widening is preferably designed so that the storage positions on both sides of the storage facility can be filled with parcels simultaneously through the central aisle.

[0036] An expedient further development of the invention is characterized in that the loading space of the parcel delivery vehicle is designed in such a way that it can be separated from the mobile part of the vehicle.

[0037] An advantageous development of the invention is characterized in that, during a stay of the parcel delivery vehicle in the area of ​​the delivery depot, the following data elements are transmitted to the parcel delivery vehicle and / or to a delivery terminal for the parcels stored in the storage positions of a storage facility of the parcel delivery vehicle:

[0038] - at least one package identification feature suitable for enabling reliable identification of a respective package and

[0039] - information identifying the storage location within the storage facility of the parcel delivery vehicles for the storage of the respective parcel.

[0040] - Address and contact details of each intended recipient of the parcel; A suitable embodiment of the invention provides that the individual parcels are rotated before being placed in storage positions so that they have a defined orientation.

[0041] An advantageous development of the invention is characterized in that the individual packages are rotated during a stay on a transfer platform of a transport unit.

[0042] The system according to the invention provides that the storage of the individual packages in the storage positions takes place taking into account package identification features of the individual packages.

[0043] A parcel identification feature is a unique data element that is virtually assigned to the parcel and enables its reliable identification, especially its unique identification. Reliable identification can refer to one or more process steps or to the entire logistics process, from the delivery of a parcel to its delivery. It is particularly advantageous for the parcel identification feature to refer to the entire logistics process; however, the invention also encompasses the use of the parcel identification feature in fewer process steps than the overall process.

[0044] A package identification feature preferably includes one or more features which, alone or in combination with one another and / or in combination with information about one or more processing operations of a package, allow a reliable identification of the package.

[0045] Package identification features include

[0046] Package identification codes;

[0047] - Product codes;

[0048] - Sender identification details;

[0049] Consignor identification features;

[0050] Recipient identification features;

[0051] - Weight of the package;

[0052] - Dimensions of the package;

[0053] - Shape of the package; - Image of the package, including an image of the package taken by a camera unit.

[0054] The use of parcel identification features is also advantageous in the subsequent processing of the parcels.

[0055] According to the invention, the receiving unit is a device configured to pick up packages of different shapes and sizes at the pick-up point and transfer them to a transport unit. The receiving unit is preferably a robot controllable by the control component, which can be configured as a stationary gripper arm, rail-guided, or freely movable.

[0056] It is expedient to equip the robot with gripper arms. Robot tools, preferably gripper systems, are preferably attached to the gripper arms, in particular one or more suction grippers, also called vacuum grippers. The gripper systems known from DE 198 17 426 A1, in particular vacuum gripper systems, are particularly preferably adapted for this purpose. In particular, it is advantageous to use the measures described in this document for monitoring the gripping process, including a force sensor. This enables corrections in the event of incorrect gripping of packages, since forces outside a tolerance range can be measured and used to vary the control of the gripping process.

[0057] Furthermore, it is expedient to equip the gripper arms with one or more sensor modules, in particular at least one force sensor, to measure the force acting on the package to be lifted. Furthermore, the use of position sensors is advantageous, which are suitable for measuring the relative position or distance between the package and the gripper or for determining the start and end points of a movement.

[0058] Preferably, a flexible gripping device is used to pick up the packages, as shown, for example, in DE 20 2007 013 673 U1. This gripping device comprises a gripper with a multi-element frame, which is adapted for the present invention to enable the best possible adaptation to variable dimensions (geometries) of the packages.

[0059] If a freely movable robot is used as the receiving unit, it can also assume the functions of the transport unit and the loading unit. After picking up the individual parcels at the receiving point, it can transport them to the parcel delivery vehicle and store them there in a storage location. In one embodiment of the invention, such a robot additionally has a transfer platform for the safe transport of the individual parcels. According to the invention, the transfer platform can also be designed so that multiple parcels can be transported on it simultaneously.

[0060] The transport unit according to the invention is a mobile device configured to receive one or more individual parcels of different shapes and sizes from the receiving unit and, controlled by the control component, to transport them to or into the parcel delivery vehicle. The transport unit is preferably configured to transport a single parcel. According to the invention, the transport unit can be designed to be movable on rails or other guide means, or can be freely movable.

[0061] The transport unit according to the invention preferably has a transfer platform on which a single package or multiple individual packages can be stored during transport by the transport unit. In a preferred embodiment, the transfer platform of the transport unit is height-adjustable. In addition, it is preferred that the transfer platform of the transport unit is rotatable. The transfer platform also preferably has a conveyor belt for moving packages deposited thereon. In this case, it is advantageous if, in particular, light barrier sensors are used to check whether, when a package is transferred to and / or from the transfer platform, the package is complete and suitable for transport on the transfer platform or has been completely transferred from the transfer platform.

[0062] According to the invention, a parcel can be transferred, in particular onto the transfer platform and / or from the transfer platform to a storage location of a parcel delivery vehicle, by means of the conveyor belt of the preferably height-adjustable transfer platform of the transport unit. Preferably, light barrier sensors are used to check whether, when a parcel is handed over to the transfer platform, the parcel is complete and ready for transport on the transfer platform or whether it has been completely transferred from the transfer platform to a storage location. This embodiment of the transport unit is therefore also suitable for functioning as a loading unit. In conjunction with a conveyor belt assigned to an individual delivery route, this embodiment of the transport unit can, according to the invention, assume the function of both the receiving unit and the loading unit.According to the invention, the loading unit is a device configured to pick up parcels of different shapes and sizes from the parcel delivery vehicle and store them in a storage position of the parcel delivery vehicle's storage facility. The loading unit is preferably a robot controllable by the control component, which can be stationary, rail-guided, or freely movable.

[0063] Analogous to the pick-up unit, it is expedient to equip the robot with gripper arms. Robot tools, preferably gripper systems, are preferably attached to the gripper arms, in particular one or more suction grippers, also called vacuum grippers. The gripper systems known from DE 198 17 426 A1, in particular vacuum gripper systems, are particularly preferably adapted for this purpose. In particular, it is advantageous to use the measures described in this document for monitoring the gripping process, including a force sensor. This enables corrections in the event of incorrect gripping of packages, since forces outside a tolerance range can be measured and used to vary the control of the gripping process.

[0064] Furthermore, it is expedient to equip the gripper arms with one or more sensor modules, in particular at least one force sensor, to measure the force acting on the package to be lifted. Furthermore, the use of position sensors is advantageous, which are suitable for measuring the relative position or distance between the package and the gripper or for determining the start and end points of a movement.

[0065] Preferably, a flexible gripping device is used to pick up the packages, as shown, for example, in DE 20 2007 013 673 U1. This gripping device comprises a gripper with a multi-element frame, which is adapted for the present invention to enable the best possible adaptation to variable dimensions (geometries) of the packages.

[0066] If a freely movable robot is used as the loading unit, it can also take over the functions of the transport unit and the pick-up unit in the same way as described above for the pick-up unit and can transport the individual parcels to the parcel delivery vehicle after picking them up at the pick-up point and store them in a storage position there.

[0067] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the function of the loading unit, as described above, is assumed by a correspondingly configured transport unit. The control component of the system according to the invention can be designed such that it controls as many or even all of the parcel processing operations as possible. However, it is equally possible for the control component to control only individual processing steps described in this application. According to the invention, the control component controls at least the loading process of a parcel delivery vehicle through the interaction of the receiving unit, transport unit, and loading unit. According to the invention, it is thus ensured that the parcels are stored quickly and reliably in storage positions of a storage facility for the parcel delivery vehicles.A further advantage is that storage in the storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicles' storage facility can be carried out without the use of sensor devices or other recording devices in the parcel delivery vehicles.

[0068] According to the invention, immediately after the storage of parcels in a parcel delivery vehicle at the delivery depot has been completed, preferably while the parcel delivery vehicle is still in the area of ​​the delivery depot, a data set is transmitted to the parcel delivery vehicle and / or a delivery terminal under the control of the control component. The delivery terminal is a communications device that can be used for voice and data communication anywhere, preferably a handheld scanner, a notebook, a tablet, a smartphone, a smart watch, or data glasses (smartglasses). The contents of the data set are at least all relevant data required to hand over the parcels currently in the parcel delivery vehicle to the recipients. Preferably, for each parcel stored in the parcel delivery vehicle in the area of ​​the delivery depot, the following are required:

[0069] - The storage location within the parcel delivery vehicle's storage facility; A parcel identification feature;

[0070] - Address and contact details of the intended recipient of the parcel;

[0071] In addition, the data set may contain the following data for each parcel stored in the parcel delivery vehicle in the delivery depot area:

[0072] Size of the package other package identification features

[0073] Contact details of the consignor

[0074] Authentication features of the consignor

[0075] Authentication features of the parcel recipient. The delivery of the plurality of parcels takes place, in particular, by directly handing over the parcels to a recipient at an individual handover point. A delivery agent can be integrated into the process. A delivery agent is, in particular, a unit configured to travel between the delivery vehicle and the parcel handover points and to hand over parcels to recipients or deliverers. This is particularly preferably a suitably programmed robot, such as the humanoid robots from Boston Dynamics or four-legged robots such as the robot dog Spot, but possibly also humanoid delivery agents.

[0076] The term "parcel delivery vehicle" encompasses any vehicle designed to travel routes, particularly on public roads, and transport parcels along a delivery route to recipients. The parcel delivery vehicle can be a conventional vehicle driven by a delivery person, in particular a small van or truck, or an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle.

[0077] A particularly preferred embodiment of the parcel delivery vehicle is characterized in that there is at least one transport path in the parcel delivery vehicle, wherein at least one transport unit can move along the transport path, so that using the transport unit, a transport of individual parcels to storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicle is possible, and that the transport of the parcels by the transport units within the parcel delivery vehicle can be controlled taking into account the storage positions assigned to the respective parcels on the basis of the parcel identification features.

[0078] An advantageous further development of the invention is characterized in that individual parcels can also be transferred out of storage positions of the storage facility of parcel delivery vehicles by the transport units

[0079] In a particular embodiment, the storage positions of the storage facility of the parcel delivery vehicles according to the invention can be designed like lockers.

[0080] Handover points are locations where packages can be handed over to recipients. Common handover points are locations where multiple packages can be handed over to multiple recipients. Individual handover points are locations where one or more packages can be delivered to a single recipient.

[0081] The invention particularly relates to handover methods in which at least some of the parcel handovers take place at locations along a delivery route. These are, in particular, individual handover points.

[0082] The system according to the invention is preferably used when individual handover points are approached one after the other by a parcel delivery vehicle and parcel deliveries are carried out there.

[0083] For the application of the system according to the invention, it is advantageous if at least one means for transferring the parcels to a transfer device and at least one means for controlling the transfer device are present in the area of ​​the distribution center and / or delivery depot, so that the transfer device can be controlled in such a way that parcels intended for delivery on a specific delivery route are transported to a receiving point assigned to this delivery route.

[0084] For the application of the system according to the invention, it is advantageous if a delivery depot for parcels is provided, which is characterized in that it contains means for transporting the parcels, that it contains transfer devices for transferring the parcels and for discharging the parcels to the receiving points.

[0085] Consignors within the meaning of this application are entities that hand over, or can hand over, parcels or other items to a logistics system. Both natural persons and technical entities can be consignors in the context of this application. Natural persons or technical entities that hand over parcels to the logistics system for a transport process are also referred to as consignors in the context of this application. Consignors refer in particular to those consignors who commission the transport of parcels, in particular including collection, to a recipient. This application encompasses embodiments in which the consignors of parcels are consignors.

[0086] Recipients within the meaning of the invention are entities to which the logistics system delivers or can deliver parcels as the final processing step. Both natural persons and technical entities can be recipients in the context of the present application.

[0087] Further advantages, special features and expedient developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims and the following representation of preferred embodiments with reference to the figures.

[0088] List of figures

[0089] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of part of the loading process according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0090] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of part of the loading process according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0091] FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c: Schematic diagram of the storage facility of a parcel delivery vehicle according to the invention;

[0092] FIG. 4 shows a detailed view of a storage position designed as a locker;

[0093] FIG. 5. a parcel delivery vehicle according to the invention;

[0094] FIG. 6a shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf according to the invention;

[0095] FIG. 6b shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf according to the invention;

[0096] FIG. 6c shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf according to the invention;

[0097] FIG. 6d shows an advantageous compartment configuration of a shelf according to the invention;

[0098] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a transport unit according to the invention;

[0099] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a transport unit according to the invention;

[0100] FIGS. 9(a) and (b) show a perspective view of a transport unit according to the invention with a rotatable transfer platform;

[0101] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an embodiment of a transfer device;

[0102] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a second embodiment of a transfer device;

[0103] FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a third embodiment of a transfer device; FIGS. 13, 13a and 13b show a representation of a roller conveyor that can be used as part of a distribution center and / or a transfer device, in particular as a section of the conveyor belts shown in FIGS. 10 to 12;

[0104] Fig. 14 is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of a transfer device;

[0105] FIG15a, 15b, 15c Alternative embodiment of a locker-like design of the

[0106] Stock positions

[0107] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of part of the loading process when loading through the fully or partially opened rear wall of the parcel delivery vehicle;

[0108] Fig. 17 is a plan view of a storage device according to the invention;

[0109] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of the loading of a storage device driven out of the parcel delivery vehicle from the side.

[0110] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of the loading of a storage device driven out of the parcel delivery vehicle through the center, after widening;

[0111] FIGS. 20, 20a, 20b show schematic diagrams of shelving systems for storage facilities according to the invention;

[0112] Explanation of the illustrations

[0113] Introduction

[0114] As already explained in the introductory part, the present application relates to a system for the automatic loading of parcel vehicles with objects with certain shapes (rolls, cuboids, etc.), minimum dimensions, maximum dimensions, minimum weights, and maximum weights as parcels, whereby the respective processing means can be adapted to the reference values: shapes, minimum dimensions, maximum dimensions, minimum weights, and maximum weights. It is possible to process everyday items such as consumables or foodstuffs as well as technical items and equipment as parcels. As also already explained in the introductory part, the parcels can be unpackaged items, packaged items, or repackaged items. In the case of packaged and repackaged items, the parcel comprises the packaging or outer packaging and the item packaged therein.

[0115] Preferred designs of the parcel delivery vehicles and their loading are shown in Figures 5, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15a-c, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20.

[0116] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to these figures.

[0117] tax component

[0118] The control component of the system according to the invention can be designed to control as many or even all of the parcel processing operations as possible. However, it is equally possible for the control component to control only individual processing steps described in this application. According to the invention, the control component controls at least the loading process of a parcel delivery vehicle through the interaction of the receiving unit, transport unit, and loading unit.

[0119] Details of preferred configurations of the control component and their interaction with components of a logistics system are presented below. For the targeted distribution of parcels to the parcel delivery vehicles in the delivery depot area, communication protocols for parcel and circuit switching are used and adapted to manage the distribution of the parcels.

[0120] It is particularly advantageous to use telecommunications protocols for the control processes and / or for protocol processes, in particular packet-switched and circuit-switched telecommunications protocols and mechanisms for controlling parcel delivery, logistics and workflow management systems.

[0121] An advantageous development of the system according to the invention provides that the control component stores and / or makes accessible additional information associated with the packages as machine-readable data, in particular through the use of digital twins. Examples of additional information include dimensions, in particular the volume of the package and / or the weight of the package, the due date / time for delivery, penalties for late delivery, delivery costs, sender and recipient information, material, fragility, and parameters for the required transport of the package, e.g., a refrigerated truck for goods that require refrigeration.

[0122] Parcel processing in distribution centers and delivery depots

[0123] Preferred configurations of sorting processes in distribution centers and delivery depots are explained below. The logistics system forwards information on parcel identification features that enable parcels to be identified, as well as information on the intended handover locations, to the logistics system's network nodes.

[0124] The logistics system receives information on parcel identification features that enable the parcels to be identified, preferably from several information sources, for example when the parcels are delivered, through a recording device, through identification devices such as scanners and RFID readers in the area of ​​distribution centers and delivery depots, or in the area of ​​transfer facilities.

[0125] The logistics system forwards the information on parcel identification features that enable identification of the parcels, as well as information on the intended handover locations for delivery, to transfer facilities and / or, via the control component of the system according to the invention, to the parcel delivery vehicles and / or delivery terminals. Forwarding the information on the parcel identification features to both the transfer facilities and the parcel delivery vehicles and / or delivery terminals has the advantage that the parcels can be stored quickly and reliably in storage positions of a storage facility for the parcel delivery vehicles. A further advantage of this expedient embodiment is that storage in the storage positions of the storage facility for the parcel delivery vehicles can take place without the use of sensor devices or other detection means in the parcel delivery vehicles.

[0126] Network nodes of the logistics system are, in particular, components of the logistics system where decisions regarding parcel processing operations are implemented. These include, for example, sorting operations, which preferably take place in parcel distribution centers. Examples of network nodes of the logistics system are preferably transfer facilities, as well as the receiving units, transport units, loading units, and the parcel delivery vehicles and delivery terminals of the system according to the invention.

[0127] The patent identification features are transmitted in such a way that the respective network nodes include the packets in the further transport process, taking into account the respective handover points.

[0128] Brief description of loading preparation and storage

[0129] The loading preparation of the parcel delivery vehicles includes individual, several or even all of the following processing operations for the parcels:

[0130] Transfer of parcels from a distribution center to a delivery depot;

[0131] - Separation of parcels in the distribution center or delivery depot;

[0132] - Transport of the packages to a collection point;

[0133] Some, several or even all of these processing operations for the packages are preferably carried out by transfer devices.

[0134] These are, in particular, processing operations in which several parcels are transported, preferably in immediate succession, to the receiving points and then stored in the parcel delivery vehicles using the system according to the invention. The storage of the parcels in the parcel delivery vehicles is achieved by placing the parcels in storage positions of the storage facilities of the parcel delivery vehicles.

[0135] In order to store the parcels in the parcel delivery vehicles as quickly as possible using the system according to the invention, it is expedient to use transfer devices which are shown by way of example in Figures 10, 11, 12 and 14.

[0136] Transfer facility

[0137] Transfer devices within the meaning of the present application are devices designed to enable the transport of parcels to a receiving point.

[0138] Another processing module controlled by the logistics system is a sorting module within the delivery depot, which preferably also serves to divert the parcels to the collection points.

[0139] Preferably, processing in the area of ​​the transfer devices comprises autonomous separation and optimized alignment of the parcels for the loading process in storage positions of the storage facilities of the parcel delivery vehicles.

[0140] Loading the parcel delivery vehicles

[0141] The system according to the invention provides at least one receiving unit, at least one transport unit and at least one loading unit as means for loading the parcel delivery vehicles, in particular for storing individual parcels in storage positions of the storage facilities of the parcel vehicles and advantageously including parcel identification features for the individual parcels.

[0142] Immediately after the parcels have been placed in a parcel delivery vehicle at the delivery depot, a data set is transmitted to the parcel delivery vehicle and / or a delivery terminal, controlled by the control component, while the parcel delivery vehicle is still present in the delivery depot area. The data set contains at least all the relevant data the delivery person needs to hand over the parcels currently in the parcel delivery vehicle to the recipients.

[0143] Preferably, for each parcel stored in the parcel delivery vehicle in the delivery depot area:

[0144] The storage position within the parcel delivery vehicle’s storage facility;

[0145] A package identification feature;

[0146] - Address and contact details of the intended recipient of the parcel;

[0147] In addition, the data record can contain the following data for each parcel stored in the parcel delivery vehicle in the delivery depot area:

[0148] - Size of the package

[0149] - further parcel identification features contact details of the consignor

[0150] - Authentication features of the consignor

[0151] - Authentication characteristics of the recipient of the package.

[0152] This means that the parcel delivery vehicles and the delivery personnel can operate autonomously at their locations without permanent communication with the logistics system or the control component; i.e., all parcels in the parcel delivery vehicle can be delivered on-site to the respective recipient.

[0153] Figures 1 and 2 show components of a system according to the invention for the automatic loading and / or unloading of parcel delivery vehicles.

[0154] Facilities for loading parcel delivery vehicles include loading bays 305, 306, 325, 405, 406, and 407. Parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 434, and 435 are driven into loading bays 305, 306, 307, 405, 406, and 407 so that they can be loaded. Parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 434, and 435 are loaded using transport units, on which parcels can be transported to storage positions on parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 434, and 435. The transport units can preferably be moved in the area of ​​the entire facilities for loading the parcel delivery vehicles, including loading ramps 302, 320, 350, 351, 402, 449, 450, 451.

[0155] The system preferably has a control component (not shown here for simplification reasons). The control component is configured to control loading and / or unloading processes of parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 425, 434 through the interaction of the receiving unit, transport unit, and loading unit, and to store information about the storage of each parcel and the location of each parcel in the storage facility, and to transmit the information about the location of each parcel in the storage facility to the parcel delivery vehicle or a delivery terminal, and to make it accessible to a delivery person upon reaching a handover location for the respective parcel before the parcel is handed over.

[0156] Figures 1 and 2 show the use of several transport units 314, 315, 316, 317, 414, 415, 416 for transporting the parcels to the parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 425, 434. In a preferred embodiment, the transport units 314, 315, 316, 317, 414, 415, 416 also serve as loading units that can transport the parcels 311, 312, 313, 411, 412, 413 into storage positions of at least one storage facility 321, 322, 323, 420, 432.

[0157] Furthermore, gripper arms 440, 441 can be arranged as loading units, particularly in the vicinity of the parcel delivery vehicles 324, 325, 425, 434. The gripper arms can, for example, be part of robots and / or be mounted so as to be movable. Robot tools, preferably gripping systems, in particular one or more suction grippers, also known as vacuum grippers, are preferably attached to the gripper arms. For example, the gripper systems known from DE 198 17 426 A1, in particular vacuum gripper systems, are adapted for this purpose. In particular, it is advantageous to use the measures described in this document for monitoring the gripping process using a force sensor. This enables corrections in the event of incorrect gripping of parcels, since forces outside a tolerance range can be measured and used to vary the control of the gripping process.

[0158] Furthermore, it is expedient to equip the gripper arms with one or more sensor modules, in particular at least one force sensor, in order to measure the force on the package to be lifted, in particular the packages 411, 412, 413. Furthermore, the use of position sensors is advantageous, which are suitable for measuring a relative position or a distance between the package and the gripper or for determining the start and end points of a movement.

[0159] Preferably, a flexible gripping device is used to pick up the packages, as shown, for example, in DE 20 2007 013 673 U1. This gripping device comprises a gripper with a multi-element frame, which is adapted for the present invention to enable better adaptation to variable dimensions (geometries) of the packages.

[0160] Parcel delivery vehicle

[0161] Figure 5

[0162] Figure 5 shows a parcel delivery vehicle 810 according to the invention. The parcel delivery vehicle 810 preferably has a driver's cab 820 and a loading space 830.

[0163] According to the invention, more complex parcel delivery vehicles are also included, for example with devices for autonomous driving or semi-autonomous driving, whereby, in particular in the case of autonomous driving, the driver's cab can be omitted.

[0164] The parcel delivery vehicle 810 preferably contains a local data terminal (not shown here), preferably a delivery terminal, which is configured to receive, store and / or output data.

[0165] Figures 3a, 3b, 3c show, in particular, side views of the loading space 830. Figures 6a-6d show designs of the storage facilities. Figure 3a shows a one-sided external view of the open loading space 830 with storage positions 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, preferably in at least partially different sizes, partly with packages 121, 122, 124, 125 stored therein. Figure 3b shows the one-sided external view of the closed loading space 830 and Figure 3c the external view of the loading space 830 analogous to 3b with an open outer wall designed as a sliding door 150. Figure 4 shows a detailed view of a single locker 7000 of an embodiment similar to Figure 3b, with the door 7010 open and a spring and fixation 7020 which is designed to open the locker door 7010 at an angle of 90° for loading and preferably to close it again automatically after loading.

[0166] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 10-12, 14, 14, and 16-18, the loading space of the parcel delivery vehicle according to the invention has a particularly simple and practical structure with a central aisle.

[0167] Shelves are arranged along the sides of the central aisles for storage. Possible designs are shown in Figures 20a-b2020a (4310). (Of course, designs with other storage position configurations are also possible.)

[0168] Figures 6a - 6d

[0169] Figures 6a-d each show an advantageous compartment configuration of a storage device according to the invention; The storage devices (shelf units) which are located within parcel delivery vehicles for storing parcels can have a fixed compartment configuration as shown in Figures 6a to 6d, for examplein Figure 6a with a total of 99 compartments in the layout with 63 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 24 compartments of size M (35cm x 20cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (35cm x 40cm x 50cm), Figure 6b with a total of 91 compartments in the layout with 55 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 24 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (40cm x 40cm x 50cm), Figure 6c with a total of 75 compartments in the layout with 31 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 32 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 12 compartments of size L (40cm x 40 cm x 50cm) and Figure 6d with a total of 69 compartments divided into 31 compartments of size S (30cm x 10cm x 50cm), 20 compartments of size M (20cm x 40cm x 50cm) and 18 compartments of size L (40cm x 40 cm x 50cm).

[0170] It is also advantageous to equip the loading spaces of parcel delivery vehicles with at least one gripper arm (not shown for simplicity), preferably similar to the gripper arms used in receiving units. If necessary, using a gripper arm in the loading spaces of the parcel delivery vehicles, one or more of the following processing operations can be performed and / or facilitated:

[0171] Carrying out and / or facilitating the storage of parcels in the storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicles;

[0172] Carrying out and / or facilitating the removal of parcels from the storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicle

[0173] In this embodiment, gripper arms in the parcel delivery vehicle function as a loading unit of the system according to the invention.

[0174] Robot tools, preferably gripping systems, are preferably attached to the gripper arms, in particular one or more suction grippers, also called vacuum grippers. For example, the gripper systems known from DE 198 17 426 A1, in particular vacuum gripper systems, are adapted for this purpose. It is particularly advantageous to use the measures described in this document for monitoring the gripping process using a force sensor. This enables corrections in the event of incorrect gripping of packages, since forces outside a tolerance range can be measured and used to vary the control of the gripping process.

[0175] Furthermore, it is expedient to equip the gripper arms with one or more sensor modules, in particular at least one force sensor, in order to measure the force on the package to be lifted, in particular the packages 2101, 2151, 2161, 21201. Furthermore, the use of position sensors is advantageous, which are suitable for measuring a relative position or a distance between the package and the gripper or for determining the start and end points of a movement.

[0176] Preferably, a flexible gripping device is used to pick up the packages, as shown, for example, in DE 20 2007 013 673 U1. This gripping device comprises a gripper with a multi-element frame, which is adapted for the present invention to enable better adaptation to variable dimensions (geometries) of the packages.

[0177] Transport unit Figure 7

[0178] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a transport unit; transport units carry out the transport of parcels from the pick-up point to the parcel delivery vehicle. According to the invention, the transport unit 1241 can be mounted on wheels

[0179] 1292 on rails 1291, but the transport units can also be freely movable.

[0180] The transport unit 1241 according to the invention can have a height-adjustable device 1293, which is preferably designed in the form of a hinge. The height-adjustable device

[0181] 1293 serves for the height-adjustable support of a transfer platform 1294. The transfer platform 1294 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting packages. It is advantageous, in particular, to check, using light barrier sensors 1295, whether the package is complete and ready for transport on the transfer platform 1294 or has been completely transferred from the transfer platform 1294 when a package is transferred to and / or from the transfer platform 1294.

[0182] Figure 8

[0183] Figure 8 shows a plan view of an embodiment of a transport unit according to the invention. The transfer platform 1394 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting parcels. The conveyor belt can be used to transfer a parcel, in particular to the transfer platform and / or from the transfer platform to a storage location of storage facilities of a parcel delivery vehicle. The light barrier sensors 1395 check whether, when a parcel is transferred to the transfer platform 1394, the parcel is complete and ready for transport on the transfer platform 1394 or whether it has been completely transferred from the transfer platform 1394 to a storage location. This embodiment of the transport unit is therefore also suitable for functioning as a loading unit.

[0184] Figures 9a, 9b

[0185] In advantageous embodiments of the invention, parcel delivery vehicles are designed in such a way that transport units move and / or are controlled in such a way that they can carry out and / or facilitate several or all of the following processing operations: - Carrying out and / or facilitating the storage of parcels in the storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicle;

[0186] Carrying out and / or facilitating the removal of parcels from the storage positions of the parcel delivery vehicle

[0187] The transport unit 1641 has a height-adjustable device 1693, which is designed, for example, in the form of a hinge. The height-adjustable device 1693 serves for the height-adjustable mounting of a transfer platform 1694. The transfer platform 1694 preferably has a conveyor belt for transporting packages, for example, the package 1667 shown as an example in Figure 9a.

[0188] The transfer platform 1694 is preferably rotatably mounted. This facilitates, for example, the fact that the transfer platform 1694 can function as a receiving unit at the receiving point and, in particular, can pick up parcels from a conveyor belt and / or—preferably after a rotation of the transfer platform 1694—can transfer parcels to storage positions of storage facilities of the parcel delivery vehicles and thus also assume the function of the loading unit.

[0189] Loading preparation

[0190] From the sorting process, the parcels intended for delivery by parcel delivery vehicles are automatically identified, diverted, preferably separated and transported to the pick-up position of a parcel delivery vehicle, preferably by means of a conveyor belt.

[0191] If the parcels have not already been separated beforehand, it is advantageous to provide a parcel separator in front of the pick-up position of the delivery depot to separate the parcels, which lines up the parcels individually and one after the other in the direction of the pick-up point in front of the pick-up position.

[0192] Preferably, the parcel separators are designed with a gradual narrowing, and preferably configured with forward-pulling side belts, to separate the parcels. Figures 10, 11, 12, 13, 13a, and 13b provide a more detailed description of these processes. In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in Figures 10, 11, 12, 13, 13a, and 13b, parcels are separated in the area of ​​conveyor belts and fed to the receiving point.

[0193] Figure 10

[0194] Figure 10 shows a fully automatic design of a transfer device with gradual narrowing and forward-pulling side bands.

[0195] As soon as the loading areas of delivery vehicles 1711, 1721, and 1731 are fully or partially opened at the rear for loading at a delivery depot, so that the transport units can enter and exit the loading area, transport units 1741, 1742, and 1743 enter the loading areas of the delivery vehicles. To load the delivery vehicles, telescopic conveyor belts 17170, 17180, and 17190, which transport the packages directly from the end points 1771, 1781, and 1791, are extended to the loading areas of the delivery vehicles. The end of the respective telescopic conveyor belts serves as the pick-up point for transport units 1741, 1742, and 1743.Here, the transport units 1741, 1742 and 1743, which in this embodiment preferably also perform the function of the receiving unit and the loading unit, take over the packages 1709, 1759 and 1769 and store them in the storage facilities 1712, 1713, 1722, 1723, 1732 and 1733 of the delivery vehicles 1711, 1721 and 1731.

[0196] The end stations 1771, 1781, 1791 are configured by gradual constrictions 17110, 17120 and 17130, preferably equipped with a conveyor belt, as well as forward-pulling side belts 1772 and 1773, which are shown only once for the sake of simplicity, in such a way that the packages 1701-1709, 1751-1759, 1761-1769 are separated.

[0197] Figure 11

[0198] Figure 11 shows a fully automated design of a transfer system with an alignment turntable and spring suspension. As soon as the loading areas of delivery vehicles 1811, 1821, and 1831 are fully or partially opened at the rear for loading at a delivery depot, so that the transport units can enter and exit the loading area, transport units 1841, 1842, and 1843 move into the loading areas of the delivery vehicles. To load the delivery vehicles, telescopic conveyor belts 18170, 18180, and 18190, which transport the packages directly from the end points 1871, 1881, and 1891, are extended to the loading areas of the delivery vehicles. The end of the respective telescopic conveyor belts serves as the pick-up point for transport units 1841, 1842, and 1845.Here, the transport units 1841, 1842 and 1843, which in this embodiment preferably also perform the function of the receiving unit and the loading unit, take over the packages 1809, 1859 and 1869 and store them in the storage facilities 1812, 1813, 1822, 1823, 1832 and 1833 of the delivery vehicles 1811, 1821 and 1831.

[0199] The end stations 1871, 1881, 1891 are configured via a gradual narrowing 18110, 18120, 18130 and forward-pulling side belts (not shown for simplification), as well as turntables and springs 1885, 1886, 1887, to separate the packages. Additionally, the telescopic conveyor belts 18170, 18180, 18190 are equipped with a turntable 1885, 1886, 1887 featuring multiple springs, and a 6-sided scanner 18111, 18121, 18131 is arranged above the telescopic conveyor belts 18170, 18180, 18190 at the beginning. This transfer device can be operated in two variants:

[0200] - after scanning by the 6-side scanner 18111, 18121, 18131 the package is conveyed further and a "blanket adjustment" takes place, i.e. the package is automatically placed in the center by springs that are constantly pressing on both sides. after scanning by the 6-side scanner 18111, 18121, 18131 the package is conveyed further; the data on how the package is positioned on the conveyor belt is forwarded by the 6-side scanner 18111, 18121, 18131 to a control device, which can be part of the control component, whereby the control component moves the springs according to the position of the package (i.e. each spring individually) so that the package is then also positioned in the center.

[0201] Although the individual packages 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1751, 1752, 1753, 1754, 1755, 1761, 1762, 1763, 1764, 1765 differ considerably in dimensions, volume, and shape, this ensures precise positioning of the package, namely always centered on the conveyor belt, which is advantageous for transfer to the transport unit. At the same time, the alignment turntable ensures that the packages are stored in the storage facility with the shortest side in the longitudinal direction of the loading space, saving space. Figure 12

[0202] Figure 12 shows a transfer facility similar to that shown in Figure 11, using two or more transport units. To speed up the loading of a parcel delivery vehicle, two or more transport units can alternatively be used to load a parcel delivery vehicle.

[0203] In contrast to loading a parcel delivery vehicle with one transport unit, when loaded with two or more transport units (1940, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945), the transport units move to the conveyor belt to pick up a parcel. A guide rail can be used for the route from the parcel delivery vehicle to the conveyor belt, which docks seamlessly onto the guide rail of the parcel delivery vehicle.

[0204] However, freely movable transport units controlled by the control component are more advantageous. In this case, a guide rail is not required.

[0205] When using a guide rail, the "empty" transport unit moves, for example, along the right side of the guide rail ring (from the perspective of the parcel delivery vehicle) to the conveyor belt, where it can pick up a parcel, preferably using a pick-up unit (not shown for simplification). Parallel to this, a second transport unit waits on the left side of the ring, already loaded with a parcel from the conveyor belt. As soon as the empty transport unit has left the parcel delivery vehicle and moved to the conveyor belt, the transport unit loaded with a parcel enters the parcel delivery vehicle for loading.

[0206] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the transport unit also performs the function of the loading unit. However, the parcels can also be moved to a storage location by a loading device located in the cargo area of ​​the parcel delivery vehicle.

[0207] It is advantageous if the door of the parcel delivery vehicle, which occupies the entire rear of the vehicle, can be opened wide enough so that the vehicle can be parked directly on the loading ramp without any gap. Figures 13, 13a and 13b

[0208] Figure 13 shows a plan view of a roller conveyor that can be used as part of a transfer device, in particular as a conveyor belt.

[0209] Figures 13, 13a and 13b illustrate advantageous embodiments for singling parcels both in delivery depots as shown in Figures 10-12 and on main conveyor belts of distribution centers.

[0210] The packages 2001a and 2001b, 2002 and 2003 are generally conveyed forward by individual elements 2009-14 of a roller conveyor or by equivalent technical equipment, to the right in Figures 13 and 13b. However, each individual element 2009-14 of the roller conveyor can also be rotated against the general flow direction, i.e., to the left in Figures 13 and 13b. Furthermore, the speed of each individual element can be varied. In the case of packages that are not yet sufficiently separated, such as packages 2001a and 2001b, the upper package 2001a can be slowed down and the lower package 2001b can be accelerated, resulting in complete separation of packages 2001a and 2001b by the time the roller conveyor tapers after individual element 2014.Technically, this happens because the individual elements 2009 and 2010 rotate to the left, and the individual elements 2012 and 2013 rotate to the right at an accelerated speed compared to the normal speed of the individual elements, while individual element 2011 does not rotate at all for a short moment.

[0211] The separation process can be further supported by lateral belts 2072, as shown in Figure 13b. The lateral belts 2072 are rotatable in both directions. The lower package 2001b can be moved forward at an accelerated rate not only by an accelerated movement of the individual elements 2012 and 2013, but also by a forward movement of the lower lateral belt 2072, which supports the separation process.

[0212] Figure 13a

[0213] Figure 13a shows a cross-section of a portion of the roller conveyor shown in Figures 13 and 13b. The roller conveyor shown as an example in Figure 13a has cylindrical rollers 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. The rollers are rotatably mounted via rotation axes 2084 and 2080, shown as examples.

[0214] Some of the rollers, in the illustrated case the rollers 2011, 2012, 2013, 2017, do not have their own drive, but are mounted so as to be rotatable about their respective axis of rotation, preferably with a corresponding low-friction bearing device, for example a ball bearing or a shaft bearing.

[0215] The rollers 2009, 2010, 2014, and 2016 are each preferably individually driven by a motor (not shown for simplification). In particular, the motor driving the rollers 2009, 2010, 2014, and 2016 is configured to actively rotate the rollers 2009, 2010, 2014, and 2016 both clockwise and counterclockwise, so that packages can be specifically accelerated or decelerated in the areas where they rest on the respective roller.

[0216] The motors that drive the rollers 2009, 2010, 2014, 2016 are controlled by a controller 2091, which may be part of the control component according to the invention. The controller 2091 may take into account evaluation signals from a detection unit 2092 regarding the positions of packages 2001a, 2001b, 2002, 2003. For this purpose, the detection unit 2092 cooperates with at least one and / or a camera device 2038 for detecting the positions of the packages 2001a, 2001b, 2002, 2003.

[0217] As previously explained in Figure 13, packages 2001a and 2001b are located close to one another on the conveyor belt formed by the roller conveyor. As also shown, package 2001b is located in front of package 2001a in the conveying direction of the roller conveyor—according to the direction of the arrow. By controlling the rollers on which only package 2001b is located, but not package 2001a, clockwise, thus conveying package 2001b in the conveying direction, and by controlling the rollers on which only package 2001a is located counterclockwise, packages 2001b and 2001a are separated from one another, or else separating packages 2001a and 2001b by other means—for example, by conveyor belts 2072—is supported accordingly. Figure 14

[0218] Figure 14 shows a further advantageous embodiment of a transfer device 5130, 5336 according to the invention. Here, no narrowing of the end points, which are identified by way of example in Figure 14 with reference numbers 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140, is necessary, since the use of robots 2180, 2190 results in separation between the end points 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140 and the conveyor belts 2170, 2171, 2172, 2173 to the parcel delivery vehicles 2111, 2121, 2131, 2141: One of the robots preferably looks after 2-3 end points 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140, in particular in Change.In a preferred embodiment, the end points are alternately serviced by the robot 2180, 2190 removing several packages 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140, preferably 3 to 10 individual packages 2101, 2151, 2161, 21201, from one of the end points 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140 at the end points 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140 and placing them on a conveyor belt 2170, 2171, 2172, 2173 located near the respective end point 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140. The robot 2180, 2190 then moves to the next of the end stations 21110, 21120, 21130, 21140 and the respective conveyor belt.

[0219] It is expedient to equip the robots 2180, 2181 with gripper arms 2182, 2183, 2184, 2185. Preferably, gripper systems, in particular one or more suction grippers, also called vacuum grippers, are attached to the gripper arms 2182, 2183, 2184, 2185. For example, the gripper systems known from DE 198 17 426 A1, in particular vacuum gripper systems, are adapted for this purpose. In particular, it is advantageous to use the measures described in this document for monitoring the gripping process, including a force sensor. This enables corrections in the event of incorrect gripping of packages, since forces outside a tolerance range can be measured and used to vary the control of the gripping process.

[0220] Furthermore, it is expedient to equip the gripper arms with one or more sensor modules, in particular at least one force sensor, in order to measure the force on the package to be lifted, in particular the packages 2101, 2151, 2161, 21201. Furthermore, the use of position sensors is advantageous, which are suitable for measuring a relative position or a distance between the package and the gripper or for determining the start and end points of a movement. Preferably, a flexible gripping device is used to pick up the packages, which is shown, for example, in DE 20 2007 013 673 U1. This gripping device has a gripper with a multi-element frame, which is adapted for the present invention in such a way that better adaptation to variable dimensions (geometries) of the packages is enabled.

[0221] Figures 15a, 15b and 15c

[0222] Figures 15a, 15b, and 15c show a further embodiment of storage positions according to the invention, which are designed as lockers and in which loading occurs from the side. Figure 15a shows a section of a storage facility with storage positions 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, which are arranged vertically one above the other in a type of column. The doors 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216 of the individual lockers in the column are fastened in a common frame 210 (shown in dashed lines). As Figure 15b shows, the doors 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216 of individual lockers, exemplified by door 212, can be opened to one side (in the case shown, to the left). The frame 210 is designed so that it can be opened to the other side (in the case shown, to the right) and thus opens all the lockers in the column.The advantage of this embodiment compared to the single compartment solution described in Figure 4 is that instead of a device for each individual door, only one device is required for the frame of the column to open and fix it, then carry out the loading and then close all doors again using the frame.

[0223] Figure 16

[0224] Figure 16 shows an advantageous embodiment of the loading of parcel delivery vehicles, in which several transport units 520, 521, 522, 523, which also function as loading units, drive into the central aisle 550 of the loading space 540 of the parcel delivery vehicle and transfer a parcel to the assigned storage position 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513 of the storage facilities 500, 500a, and then drive out again so that the next transport unit can drive in. Here, 522 and 523 denote transport units loaded with parcels before entering the loading area 540 of the parcel delivery vehicle, 520 denotes a transport unit in the center aisle 550 of the loading area 540 of the parcel delivery vehicle before the parcel is placed in a storage position, and 521 denotes an empty transport unit after exiting the loading area 540 of the parcel delivery vehicle. Figure 17

[0225] Figure 17 shows a top view of the arrangement of the storage units 620, 630 along a central aisle 640 and of storage positions (for example 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 608, 609, 610, 611, 612) in the loading space 660 of a parcel delivery vehicle.

[0226] Figures 18 and 19

[0227] Figures 18 and 19 show a further embodiment of the loading of parcel delivery vehicles using the system according to the invention. In both cases, the storage device 700, 800 is configured such that it can be pulled out or moved out of the loading space 699, 799 of the parcel delivery vehicle. Figure 18 shows the pulled-out storage device 700, in which the storage positions are accessible not only from the central aisle 750, but also from the outside, and transport units 701, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707 simultaneously transport the parcels to both sides 740, 760 of the central aisle 750 for storage in the storage positions.

[0228] Figure 19 shows a storage facility that can be manually or automatically pulled apart (widened) after being pulled out or driven out of the loading space 799 of the parcel delivery vehicle. The widening is designed so that parcels can be stored simultaneously in the storage positions on both sides of the storage facility 800. In the embodiment shown in Figure 19, the central aisle is widened so far that transport units 801, 803, 804, 807, 808, 809, 810 can approach the left and right shelves simultaneously, and there is enough space in between for empty transport units 806, 812 to leave the storage facility 800 at the same time in the middle 850. Furthermore, transport units 803, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 809 loaded with packages 813, 814, 815, 816, 817, 818 are shown, which are waiting to enter the storage facility 800. According to the invention, it is also possible to use the transport units shown in Fig.18 and the loading through the central aisle shown in Fig. 19 in parallel.

[0229] Flexible shelving systems

[0230] Figures 20, 20a and 20b. Figures 20, 20a, and 20b depict a shelving system. The shelving system 4310 according to the invention is particularly suitable for use as a storage facility for a parcel delivery vehicle according to the invention. However, the shelving system depicted is not limited to such a use.

[0231] The shelving system shown is characterized in that shelves 4320, 4321, 4332 and / or lateral boundary partitions of the storage positions 4322 can be arranged in a movable manner.

[0232] This makes it possible to adapt the distance between different horizontal or vertical levels of the rack to meet varying requirements. It is particularly advantageous to adapt the storage facility to the number and / or dimensions of the goods to be stored, including the packages shown in this application.

[0233] Alternatively, it is possible according to the invention to design the shelves 4320, 4321, 4332 without boundary partitions and to mark storage positions by visual markings, in particular numbers, barcodes, matrix codes, light-emitting diodes or laser pointers.

[0234] In a further embodiment, the storage position on the shelves 4320, 4321, 4332 can also be displayed using technical aids, in particular data glasses (smart glasses).

[0235] The embodiments shown here are merely examples of the present invention and should therefore not be considered limiting. Alternative embodiments contemplated by those skilled in the art are equally encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Patent claims: A system for the automatic loading of parcel delivery vehicles, characterized in that the system comprises at least one receiving unit for receiving individual parcels, at least one transport unit for transporting individual parcels, at least one loading unit for loading parcel delivery vehicles, and a control component, wherein the parcel delivery vehicles are equipped with storage facilities that have a plurality of storage positions and are arranged such that at least one loading unit has access to each storage position in such a way that the loading unit can move parcels into the storage position of the storage facility, and that the control component is arranged such that it controls the loading process and / or an unloading process of a parcel delivery vehicle through the interaction of the receiving unit,The transport unit and loading unit are controlled, and information about the storage of each package and its location within the storage facility is stored, and this information is made available to a delivery person upon reaching a handover point for the respective package, prior to the handover of the package. The system according to claim 1 is characterized in that the storage of the individual packages in storage positions within the storage facilities takes into account the package identification characteristics of the individual packages. The system according to claim 1 or 2 is characterized in that, during a stay of the parcel delivery vehicle in the area of ​​the delivery depot, the control component transmits data elements to the parcel delivery vehicle and / or a delivery person's terminal device for each package stored in the storage positions of a storage facility of the parcel delivery vehicle, comprising: - at least one packet identification feature suitable for enabling reliable identification of each packet and - Information for identifying the storage location within the storage facility of the parcel delivery vehicle for the storage of the respective parcel. - Address and contact details of each intended recipient of the package 4. System according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the receiving unit is a robot controllable by the control component, which is designed to be stationary as a gripper arm or rail-guided or freely movable.

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport unit is a mobile device which is configured to take one or more individual packages of different shapes and sizes from the receiving unit and to transport them to or into the parcel delivery vehicle in a controlled manner by the control component.

6. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport unit is a robot and / or has a preferably height-adjustable platform.

7. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the loading unit is a device which is set up to receive packages of different shapes and sizes on the parcel delivery vehicle and to store them in a storage position of the storage device of the parcel delivery vehicle.

8. System according to claim 7, characterized in that the loading unit is a robot controllable by the control component, which is designed to be stationary, rail-guided or freely movable.

9. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the receiving unit, the transport unit and the loading unit are designed as separate devices or are designed in such a way that two of these devices or all three devices are implemented in one device.

10. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage devices are arranged longitudinally on the side walls of the parcel delivery vehicles.

11. System according to claim 10, characterized in that the storage facilities are shelves.

12. System according to claim 11, characterized in that the shelves and / or lateral partition walls of the storage positions are arranged to be slidable.

13. System according to claim 11, characterized in that the shelves do not have any limiting partitions and the storage positions are marked by visual markings, in particular numbers, barcodes, matrix codes, light-emitting diodes or laser pointers.

14. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage of parcels into the storage facility is carried out from the rear of the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle through a door which occupies the full width of the cargo space or a part thereof, wherein the width of the door must be selected to be at least such that a transport unit can move into and out of the storage facility.

15. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the storage of parcels into the storage facility or the removal of parcels from the storage facility takes place from the outside via the open side walls of the parcel delivery vehicle.

16. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage device is arranged so that it can be moved out of the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle, loaded and / or unloaded outside the parcel delivery vehicle and moved back into the parcel delivery vehicle and can preferably be widened for loading or unloading and then narrowed again.

17. System according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the storage device is designed in the manner of lockers and can be opened from the side.

18. System according to claim 15, characterized in that the locker doors are each equipped with a spring and fixing (7020) so that the locker doors (7010) open at an angle of 90° for loading and preferably close automatically after loading.

19. System according to claim 15, characterized in that the storage positions are each arranged vertically above one another in a kind of column, the doors of the individual lockers of a column are attached in a common frame, and the door of an individual locker can be opened to one side and the frame is arranged so that it can be opened to the other side and thus opens all lockers of the column.

20. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle is designed in such a way that it can be separated from the mobile part of the vehicle.

21. Parcel delivery vehicle, suitable for use in a system according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the parcel delivery vehicle has a loading space which is equipped on the side walls with storage facilities for storing the parcels, which have a plurality of storage positions and are arranged in such a way that at least one loading unit has access to each storage position in such a way that the loading unit can move parcels into the storage position of the storage facility.

22. Parcel delivery vehicle according to claim 21, characterized in that the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle can be fully or partially opened at the rear.

23. Parcel delivery vehicle according to claim 21, characterized in that the side walls of the cargo space can be opened.

24. Parcel delivery vehicle according to claim 21 or 23, characterized in that the opening of the side walls of the cargo space is effected by sliding doors or opening roller doors.

25. Parcel delivery vehicle according to one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle is designed in such a way that it can be separated from the mobile part of the vehicle.

26. Parcel delivery vehicle according to one of claims 21 to 25, characterized in that the storage device is arranged in such a way that it can be moved out of the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle and moved back into the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle.

27. Parcel delivery vehicle according to one of claims 21 to 26, characterized by the fact that the storage facility is designed so that it can be widened and narrowed again outside the cargo space of the parcel delivery vehicle.

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