Logistics system for the automated transfer of at least one fluid medium

Abstract

A logistics system (100) and method for automated transfer of at least one fluid medium are proposed. The logistics system includes at least one transfer site (102), the transfer site (102) configured to perform at least one step selected from the group consisting of loading a fluid medium into a mobile tank (104) and unloading the fluid medium from the mobile tank (104), the transfer site (102) including at least one piping system (108) having at least one pipe connection (110), and at least one controller (142), the controller (142) being programmed to control at least one function of the logistics system (100), the at least one operating arm (114) and the automated coupling system (116). and at least one transfer system (112) having a stem (116), wherein the transfer arm (114) is configured to transfer the coupling system (116), and the automatic coupling system (116) is configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle (118) of the transfer tank (104), the at least one transfer system (112) and the automatic coupling system (116) are further configured to automatically open a pipe connection (110) at the transfer site (102), and the automatic coupling system (116) is further configured to fluidly connect the tank nozzle (118) and the pipe connection (110).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a logistics system for the automated transfer of at least one fluid medium and to a method for the transfer of at least one fluid medium. [Background technology]

[0002] In many technical fields, mobile tanks are loaded and unloaded before and after transportation and storage. This unloading takes place at a location called a transshipment site, which is a facility where mobile tanks can be loaded and unloaded. The products being loaded come from one or more fixed tanks, other mobile tanks, or pipelines. During unloading, the products are transported via fixed tanks, other mobile tanks, or pipelines directly to the consumer.

[0003] Currently, loading and unloading operations are performed manually by employees. To do this, employees order the mobile tanks from the transfer site. The mobile tanks are then connected to the transfer site. For this purpose, pipes or hoses are connected to the mobile tank's fittings. For mobile tanks with all openings and valves above the liquid level, the connection is made at the top fitting. For mobile tanks with openings below the liquid level, the connection may be made at the top or bottom. For this purpose, at least two connections are generally established: one line through which the product is intended to flow and one line through which the gas is intended to be vented. For non-hazardous products, gas displacement may not be necessary, in which case the top fitting must be opened to establish pressure equalization. This connection operation is in both cases performed at the start of loading or unloading, and therefore a second time after loading or unloading is completed. Because pipes and hoses are relatively heavy and may be equipped with couplings or flanges, the connection operation is optionally supported by mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems, such as articulated loading arms. Other activities performed by the loading staff include supervising the filling process and recording the activities in a checklist. On-site employees also monitor to ensure that overfilling does not occur. To do this, they use either scales, flow meters or fill level meters, which also require manual connection.

[0004] Despite the many advantages of logistics systems with transshipment sites known from the prior art, there is still room for improvement. A large number of transshipment sites creates a bottleneck in the staff available for the activities mentioned above. They also lack flexibility. As a result, many transshipment locations are not operated optimally, for example because work at the transshipment sites is only carried out during the day or during extended day shifts. Furthermore, manually operated transshipment sites are unable to cope well with fluctuations. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Object of the invention It would therefore be desirable to provide a logistics system and method for transshipping at least one fluid medium that avoids, at least to a large extent, the drawbacks of known logistics systems. In particular, the transshipment should be automated, and such a transshipment process can be fully automated, allowing the transshipment site to operate flexibly with a large or small number of mobile tanks to be loaded and unloaded. This also makes it possible for the first time to implement safety protection concepts, such as transporting half of the product by a means of transport, such as an inland waterway ship, and the other half by another means of transport, such as rail. If a bottleneck occurs in one transport mode, such as inland waterway transport, due to low water levels, a flexible change to another transport mode is possible, but this is only possible if automation eliminates the bottleneck of loading staff.

[0006] It would also be desirable to automate the loading process, which would result in serious injury to loading staff in the event of an unplanned (unintentional) release of fluid medium due to a fluid medium leak. Automation means that there are no personnel in the immediate danger area, thus eliminating or reducing the risk to personnel.

[0007] Furthermore, in the event of an accident or unintentional release of a fluid medium, the method is suitable for closing the tank even during emergency measures that have already been initiated, and optionally for transporting the tank from the danger zone by an automated transport system, preferably for this purpose automating the loading process. In contrast, this is not possible with non-automated manual loading operations, since in the event of danger, humans are the first to evacuate. Therefore, mobile tanks not involved in the accident / incident can be closed by the proposed system and transported from the danger zone by the proposed method. In this way, the impact of a possible spread of an accident / incident (e.g., a fire) to previously unaffected mobile tanks is avoided by the proposed invention, thereby reducing the consequences of the accident. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Summary of the Invention This object is addressed by a logistics system and a method for the transshipment of at least one fluid medium having the features of the independent claims. Advantageous developments, which can be implemented individually or in any combination, are set out in the dependent claims.

[0009] In the following, the terms "have", "comprise", "include" or grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Thus, these terms may relate to a situation in which no further features are present apart from the features introduced by these terms, as well as to a situation in which one or more further features are present or present. For example, the expressions "A has B", "A comprises B" or "A includes B" may relate both to a situation in which no further elements are present in A apart from B (i.e., a situation in which A consists only of B) and to a situation in which, in addition to B, one or more further elements are present in A, e.g., element C, elements C and D, or further elements.

[0010] It is also noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features, and intended to express that an element or feature may be provided one or more times, are generally only used once, e.g., when the feature or element is first introduced. If the feature or element is subsequently mentioned again, the corresponding terms "at least one" or "one or more" are generally no longer used, without limiting the possibility that the feature or element may be provided one or more times.

[0011] Furthermore, in the following, the terms "preferably," "particularly," "for example," or similar terms are used in connection with optional features, without alternative embodiments being limited thereby. Features introduced by these terms are therefore optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the claims, in particular the independent claims. Therefore, as can be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention can also be implemented using other configurations. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or "in an example of the invention" are to be understood as optional features and are not intended to limit alternative configurations or the scope of protection of the independent claims thereby. Furthermore, all possible combinations of the introduced features with other features, regardless of whether they are optional or non-optional features, remain unaffected by these introductory expressions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In a first aspect of the present invention, a logistics system for automated transfer of at least one fluid medium is proposed.

[0013] The term "logistics system" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed to its usual and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. It is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. It may refer to a system that transforms goods in terms of space, time, type, and quantity, without any particular limitation. Therefore, a logistics system may include transportation, storage, and / or picking systems to perform this function. The overall flow of goods is supported by packaging processes performed in packaging systems, which facilitate or even simply enable transportation, storage, and picking. Information, i.e., intangible goods, drives the overall (material) flow of goods. Information flow is crucial in organizational design and parallels the flow of goods and corresponds to material flow in the logistics chain. Every logistics system is characterized by the interplay of movement and storage processes. Things (goods, energy, information, people) are guided through a network of nodes (stores, warehouses) and edges (movements). Various connection structures are possible between sources (delivery points) and sinks (receiving points). In a single-stage logistics system, there is a direct flow of goods between the distribution point (source) and the receiving point (sink). In a multi-stage logistics system, there is an indirect flow of goods, interrupted by at least one further node where additional storage and / or movement processes take place. At a sorting point, goods arrive in large quantities from the distribution point and leave in smaller quantities for various receiving points. Sorting can consist purely of reducing the quantity of a particular product or of grouping goods by quantity and type (sorting, picking) (e.g., a furniture manufacturer maintains regional distribution warehouses to supply its retail division). In multi-stage logistics systems, intermodal transport often occurs, using different modes of transport. At a hub, small quantities are received from several distribution points and larger quantities leave the hub to go to the receiving point. Finally, intermodal logistics systems include direct and indirect flows of goods adjacent to each other.

[0014] The term "transshipment" and its grammatical equivalents used herein are broad terms that should be ascribed to the ordinary and common meaning understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer to, without limitation, a change in transportation means and / or transportation route and / or storage means within a supply chain or transportation chain. Transshipment includes the receipt (loading) of transported products on a transportation means and / or the unloading (unloading) of transported products from a transportation means. Transshipment includes all transport and storage processes when transported products are transferred to a transportation means, when goods are removed, and when the transportation means is changed accordingly. Thus, a transfer from a warehouse to a transportation means, or vice versa, is a transshipment. Transshipment is the process by which cargo changes transportation means, which is necessary in the case of intermodal transportation. For example, when cargo is being transported onward, it may be transferred from a truck to a cargo ship at a port on the main route or to a freight train at a freight station. The terms loading and unloading are particularly used synonymously with transshipment. Sorting, storage, removal from storage, and picking are also considered part of transshipment. DIN 30781-1, valid on the filing date of this patent application, defines transshipment as "the transfer of goods to a means of transport, the removal of goods from a means of transport, and all the conveying and storage processes involved when goods change means of transport." Transshipment can be manual, mechanical, or automated. Transshipment performance is the amount of goods handled per unit of time (e.g., year, month, day, hour). The transshipment rate indicates how often the average annual inventory of a warehouse is handled (warehouse turnover frequency). In this case, the inventory can be expressed in value (e.g., euro) or quantity (e.g., tonnes).

[0015] The term "fluid medium" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a substance that continuously deforms, i.e., flows, under the influence of shear forces. In particular, the term includes substances in liquid and gaseous aggregate states, i.e., gases and liquids, as well as plasmas, suspensions, and aerosols.

[0016] The logistics system includes at least one transshipment site.

[0017] The term "transshipment site" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed to its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer to a transshipment device or facility, without any particular restriction. In other words, a transshipment site is a technical facility used to carry out a transshipment. Therefore, a transshipment site includes a transshipment device. Therefore, this term should not be confused with a transshipment point. A transshipment location is called a transshipment point. A transshipment point may be located on a company's premises as part of the internal flow of goods (intralogistics). It may also be the interface between internal and external transport, for example, when goods are loaded onto trucks from a finished parts warehouse and transported to a customer.

[0018] The transfer site (site) is configured to perform at least one step selected from the group consisting of loading a mobile tank with a fluid medium and unloading a mobile tank with a fluid medium. It is expressly noted that loading and unloading of the mobile tank may be performed as separate steps. Alternatively, loading and unloading of the mobile tank may occur simultaneously. For example, loading may occur at one location on the mobile tank and unloading at another location. Simultaneous unloading may also create a circulating flow of the fluid medium. Such a circulating flow may be created to adjust certain physical or chemical properties of the fluid medium, such as, for example, the temperature, pressure, or state of aggregation of the fluid medium.

[0019] The term "mobile tank" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to any device or apparatus for temporarily storing or holding a fluid medium, which device or apparatus is movable, and in particular transportable. A mobile tank may be, in particular, a movable vessel or container. Such a mobile tank may be transported by truck, train, ship, or aircraft.

[0020] The transshipment site has at least one pipe system having at least one pipe connection.

[0021] The term "piping system" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not intended to be limited to any particular or suitable meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to any apparatus or device comprised of pipes, pipe connections or fittings, and associated fittings. Pipe systems are used to transport fluids, flowable or pumpable solids, and to transmit mechanical and thermal energy.

[0022] The term "pipe connection" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed to its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not intended to be limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to components configured to join pipes or hose lines, connect fittings, pumps, etc. Pipe connections are sometimes referred to as pipe fittings. Pipe connections are generally used simultaneously for sealing and structural connection, i.e., alignment of the connected elements and transmission of force. Connections formed with threaded or formed components may be subsequently removable. Threaded and sleeve fittings may be removable without disconnecting the piping. Pipe fittings are selected depending on the operational requirements (removability of the connection), operating conditions (pressure and temperature), media, and materials of the pipe sections or formed components (weldability). Purely structural pipe connectors without a sealing function are referred to as pipe connection elements.

[0023] The logistics system further comprises at least one controller.

[0024] The term "controller" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. The term may refer to a component configured to affect the behavior of a system, without particular limitation. Control places the system in a different state. A change in system behavior is brought about by information, messages, stimuli, or inputs. In particular, a controller is configured to have a targeted influence on the behavior of a technical system, such as, for example, an apparatus, device, machine, equipment, or biological system. A controller is typically an electronic unit.

[0025] The controller is programmed to control at least one function of the logistics system.

[0026] The logistics system further comprises at least one motion system having at least one motion arm and an automated coupling system.

[0027] The term "motion system" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a system that moves a machine or part. In this case, the movement may be electrical, electronic, mechanical, electromechanical, or otherwise, such as by one or more motors, actuators, or a combination thereof. The machine being moved may be a machine tool, a machine component, an apparatus, a device, and / or equipment. The motion system may be, among others, a gantry system, a machine tool with a gantry drive, and / or a robotic system.

[0028] The term "movement arm" used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed to the usual and common meaning understood by those skilled in the art. This term is not limited to a specific or adapted meaning. This term may refer to an arm-like movement mechanism without any particular limitation. In this case, the movement arm may perform linear movement, i.e., one degree of freedom, or may perform movement with multiple degrees of freedom. In the latter case, the movement arm may include one or more joints. For example, the movement arm may be designed as a robot arm, which may realize both linear and rotational movement.

[0029] The term "coupling system" as used herein is a broad term that should be attributed to its usual and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. It is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. It may refer, without any particular limitation, to a system having at least one connecting piece and further components. A coupling system therefore includes, in particular, a connecting piece and a pipe and / or hose and / or one or more valves. The coupling may be what is known as a male or female coupling. In this case, the coupling particularly refers to a detachable connection between segments of a transport line, such as a pipeline, hose, etc. The coupling allows for an efficient and reliable connection and exchange of systems, units, devices, etc. The design varies depending on the intended use, the medium to be transported in the transport line (air, gas, water, oil, acid, etc.), and the pressure conditions in the transport line (vacuum or overpressure). A coupling is particularly composed of two connecting pieces that can be connected to each other: a female connecting piece and a male connecting piece.

[0030] The actuating arm is configured to actuate the coupling system, whereby actuation may be effected by actuation of the actuating arm, and for this purpose the actuating arm may be permanently or removably coupled to the coupling system.

[0031] The automatic coupling system is configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle of the mobile tank. The automatic coupling system is further configured to automatically open a pipe connection at the transfer site. The automatic coupling system is further configured to fluidly connect the tank nozzle and the pipe connection.

[0032] The terms "automatic" or "automatically" as used herein are broad terms that should be ascribed their ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The terms are not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without being particularly limited, the terms may refer to a process that is performed without manual or further intervention when a single work step is performed. As an example, a tank nozzle may be opened without further intervention as soon as the coupling system is connected.

[0033] The term "fluidly connected" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer to a state in which a fluid medium can flow, without particular limitation.

[0034] The logistics system of the present invention allows for fully automated loading and / or unloading, thereby enabling flexible operation of transfer sites by loading or unloading a larger or smaller number of mobile tanks. This also makes it possible for the first time to implement a safety concept in which, for example, half of the products are transported by one means of transport, such as an inland waterway ship, and the other half by another means, such as rail. If a bottleneck occurs with one means of transport, such as low water levels in inland waterways, a flexible change to the other means of transport is possible. This is possible because, thanks to automation, loading staff do not become a bottleneck. In this case, the logistics system of the present invention includes the entire process from ordering, delivery, positioning at the transfer site, connection to the transfer site, unloading or loading process, determining the correct loading or unloading weight, monitoring during loading and unloading, closing the mobile tank after loading and unloading are completed, signing off on the mobile tank, and transporting the mobile tank back.

[0035] The controller may be configured to clear or block the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection, thus allowing or preventing flow through the connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection.

[0036] The logistics system may further include at least one analytical device for obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium.

[0037] The term "analytical device" as used herein is a broad term that should be attributed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without particular limitation, to a device configured to obtain and / or test at least one predetermined property of a substance or substance mixture. Such a device may in particular be configured to carry out systematic tests that break down the test object into its constituent parts (elements), where these elements are recorded, ordered, tested and evaluated based on criteria, taking into account in particular the relationships and influences (often interdependencies) between the elements.

[0038] The logistics system can then determine the required demand, call (order) mobile tanks for loading or unloading, monitor the transport, coordinate delivery in the case of a delivery, connect the tanks, inspect and approve the tank contents, initiate, monitor and complete the loading, and finally sign off (remove) the tanks for retrieval.

[0039] The controller may be configured to compare at least one parameter with at least one specification (criteria) and, depending on the result of the comparison, clear or block the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection. In other words, the controller checks whether the fluid medium corresponds to the specification and can allow or prevent loading or unloading. For example, the product is checked for correctness and purity. After the quality is approved, the line is switched to a connected fixed tank, another mobile tank, or a pipeline to a consumer, and the tank is emptied.

[0040] The parameters may be selected from the group consisting of chemical properties of the fluid medium, purity of the fluid medium, physical properties of the fluid medium, type of fluid medium, and fill volume of the fluid medium in the transfer tank. Chemical properties of the fluid medium may include, among others, solubility, reactivity, pH constant (acid constant and / or base constant), enthalpy value (enthalpy of combustion), etc. Chemical properties of the fluid medium may include, for example, a characteristic chemical reaction with another fluid connection, a color change caused by a chemical or physical interaction with an indicator, the enthalpy of the fluid connection, a characteristic detectable chemical, physical, or quantum-chemical transition, for example, as a result of energy irradiation. Physical properties of the fluid medium may include, for example, pressure, temperature, tightness of the fluid connection, pressure loss of the fluid connection, material density, state of aggregation, electrical conductivity, viscosity, emission / absorption spectrum, refractive index, boiling point of the fluid connection, refractive index of the fluid connection, color of the fluid connection, osmotic properties of the fluid connection, or vapor pressure of the fluid connection.

[0041] The controller may be configured to detect a demand for a transfer of the fluid medium. The controller may be further configured to automatically request at least one mobile tank for the transfer and provide it at the transfer site according to the request.

[0042] In this case, a mobile tank can be requested by an appropriate order, for example, from a fully automated warehouse for mobile tanks or an order for a tank in transit. An instruction is then issued to bring the appropriate mobile tank to the transfer site. In the fully automated case, the relevant mobile tank from the tank container warehouse is picked up by an automated crane and loaded onto a provided AGV chassis. This is then transported to the transfer site by an AGV (Automated Transport System for Mobile Tanks) according to instructions set by the controller. In this case, the AGV precisely positions the tank directly beneath the transfer site so that the mobile tank can be automatically connected. In a system that is not fully automated, positioning at the loading site is performed by the driver, for example, of a tanker, TC (tank container), or BTC (BASF class tank container) on a truck chassis; by the train driver, for example, of a tank wagon, tank container, or BTC on a carrier wagon; or by the captain of a ship, for example, of an inland tanker, using orientation marks. After the controller has located and recognized the mobile tank, it issues an instruction to the operating system to connect the mobile tank. For this purpose, the operating system is, for example, fixedly mounted above the transfer site. The operating system is equipped with a specially developed coupling, which allows a secure and efficient connection and closure of the mobile tank. Another option, also part of this patent application, is to install the operating system at the bottom, but it makes more sense to install the operating arm at the top.

[0043] The logistics system may further comprise at least one warehouse for multiple mobile tanks, which allows providing a buffer for the fluid or for various fluids, increasing the flexibility and capacity of the logistics system.

[0044] The mobile tank may be mounted on a driverless industrial truck (industrial vehicle), allowing the mobile tank to be transported or provided automatically, reducing staffing and therefore resources.

[0045] The term "industrial truck (industrial vehicle)" used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed to the usual and general meaning understood by those skilled in the art. This term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. This term may refer to a vehicle used on flat ground for the horizontal transportation of goods, without any particular restriction. This term is used synonymously with transport vehicle. Its counterpart is a floorless vehicle that is suspended from the ceiling of a hall or uses rails. Industrial trucks may be divided into trackless industrial trucks, such as pallet trucks, towing vehicles, and forklifts; rail-mounted industrial trucks, such as dollies and rail cars; and rail-guided industrial trucks, such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Industrial trucks are particularly characterized by their design, which allows them to travel on the floor with wheels, be freely steerable, and be configured to transport, tow, or push loads, and are intended for internal use. Driverless industrial trucks, or automated guided vehicles (AGVs), are floor-mounted vehicles with their own drive systems, automatically controlled, and guided without contact. Driverless industrial trucks are used for the transportation of goods, i.e., pulling or carrying the transported material using active or passive handling means. Driverless transport systems are internal, floor-mounted conveyor systems with automatically controlled vehicles whose primary task is the transportation of materials, but not people. They are used inside and outside buildings and essentially consist of the following components: one or more driverless transport vehicles, a master controller, positioning and location detection devices, data transmission devices, infrastructure and peripheral devices.

[0046] The pipe connection may include at least one hose. The hose may be connected or connectable to a coupling system. The actuation arm may be designed to grasp and move the hose. The hose has the advantage that it is flexible, as opposed to a relatively rigid pipe, and therefore can be more easily moved to a target location.

[0047] The term "hose" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. It is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without any particular limitation, the term may refer to a flexible, elongated, hollow body having a generally circular cross-section, as opposed to an inflexible pipe. The term "hoseline" refers to a hose installed for permanent use. The innermost, sealed layer of the hose is called the inner tube. The outermost layer is called the cover. Between these layers, there is often an inlay made of fabric or wound fiber or wire, which increases the hose's dimensional stability and compressive strength. Like corrugated and hollow pipes, suction hoses often have a spiral made of plastic or steel wire to increase cross-sectional stability. Hoses are often used as hoselines to transport materials, for example, when installation of a fixed pipeline is difficult or too complicated, or when connections or discharges are movable.

[0048] The operating arm may be designed to remove a cover from a tank nozzle of a mobile tank. Alternatively or additionally, the operating arm may be designed to attach a cover to a tank nozzle of a mobile tank. Thus, the cover may be removed from or attached to the tank nozzle without requiring manpower and saving resources.

[0049] The term "cover" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a cover used to protect a tank nozzle from contamination and / or damage.

[0050] The transfer site may further include at least one tank sensor configured to detect the position and / or type of tank nozzle of the mobile tank, the results of the detection performed by such tank sensor being used to guide an operating arm with the correct coupling to the correct position to enable automatic connection of the pipe connection.

[0051] The tank sensors may include at least one optical sensor, camera, laser sensor, lidar sensor, mechanical sensor such as a probe, inductive sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and / or infrared sensor.

[0052] The transfer site may further include at least one cleaning device, which may be configured to externally clean at least the tank nozzles of the transfer tanks, thereby ensuring that the fluids are not contaminated during loading and unloading.

[0053] The term "cleaning device" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a device configured to at least partially remove protective or undesirable particles, deposits, etc., where the cleaning effect may be physical, chemical, and / or mechanical.

[0054] The transfer site may also be configured to control the temperature of the transfer tank, thereby enabling the fluid within the transfer tank to be brought to and maintained at a predetermined temperature.

[0055] As used herein, the term "controlling temperature" and its grammatical equivalents are broad terms that should be ascribed their ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term refers to the act of bringing a fluid medium to a predetermined temperature. In this case, the temperature can be adjusted by control and / or regulation.

[0056] The transfer site may be particularly adapted to heat or cool the transfer tank, thus setting the temperature of the fluid.

[0057] Transfer sites may be designed for detachable connection of temperature control connections to the mobile tanks, allowing for temperature control on demand. Detachable connections save more space and allow for greater flexibility.

[0058] The term "temperature control connection" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not intended to be limited to any particular or suitable meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to a connection that can be connected to a mobile tank to supply and / or dissipate heat. In this case, the heat may be supplied and / or dissipated electrically and / or by a heat carrier, such as a liquid.

[0059] The operating system may be designed to detachably connect the temperature control connection to the mobile tank, thus allowing the operating system to move not only the coupling system but also the temperature control connection to the target location, further reducing staff requirements and increasing flexibility.

[0060] The transfer site may further comprise at least one monitoring device, which may be configured to monitor the loading status of the mobile tank, thereby making it possible to ensure that the mobile tank is not filled incorrectly, i.e., the fluid does not exceed the target volume.

[0061] The automatic coupling system may include at least one coupling piece, which may be configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle of the mobile tank upon deployment of the coupling piece, so that the tank nozzle can be opened without further work steps during deployment of the coupling piece, thereby reducing the number of work steps.

[0062] The transfer site may further include at least one accessible platform that allows an operator or employee to monitor the functioning of the logistics system.

[0063] The term "accessible platform" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any specific or adapted meaning. Without being limited in any way, the term may refer to any defined, level, elevated area that is accessible to at least one person.

[0064] The accessible platform may have a floor with an opening and a door. In particular, the accessible platform may have a flap and / or a sliding door. The door may be designed to selectively close and open the opening. The floor may be positioned at a height that exceeds the height of the mobile tank, thereby making the top of the mobile tank accessible to operators or employees.

[0065] An accessible platform floor may be placed above the mobile tank during loading and / or unloading, allowing the operator or employee access to the top of the mobile tank only when the mobile tank is positioned below it, improving occupational safety and preventing employees from accidentally falling.

[0066] The controller may be configured to open the opening by moving the door when the mobile tank is in a predetermined position below the floor, thereby allowing operators or employees to access the top of the mobile tank only when the mobile tank is positioned at the bottom, improving work safety and preventing employees from accidentally falling.

[0067] The logistics system may further include at least one mobile tank.

[0068] The motion system may be a robotic system, and the motion arm may be a robotic arm, which allows motion with multiple degrees of freedom to be achieved.

[0069] In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for the automated transshipment of at least one fluid medium using at least one logistics system according to one of the above or below described embodiments is proposed. The method comprises the method steps described below, which may preferably, but not necessarily, be performed in a defined order. Furthermore, one or more method steps may be performed simultaneously or overlapping in time. Furthermore, one or more method steps or all method steps may be performed repeatedly. The method may also comprise further method steps in addition to the defined method steps. The method comprises the following steps: i. transporting at least one mobile tank to a transshipment site; ii. automatically opening at least one pipe connection at the transshipment site with an automated coupling system; iii. automatically opening at least one tank nozzle of the transfer tank by an automatic coupling system; iv. establishing at least one fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection by an automated coupling system; and v. performing at least one step selected from the group consisting of loading the fluid medium from the transfer site's pipe system into a transfer tank and unloading the fluid medium from the transfer tank into the transfer site's pipe system.

[0070] The method according to the present invention allows for fully automated loading and / or unloading, thereby enabling flexible operation of transfer sites by loading or unloading a larger or smaller number of mobile tanks. This also allows for a protection concept for the first time, where, for example, half of the products are transported by a means of transport, such as an inland waterway ship, and the other half by another means of transport, such as rail. If a bottleneck occurs in one mode of transport, for example, due to low water levels in inland waterways, it is possible to flexibly switch to the other mode of transport. This is possible because, thanks to automation, loading staff do not become a bottleneck. In this case, the logistics system according to the present invention includes the entire process from ordering, delivery, positioning at the transfer site, connection to the transfer site, the unloading or loading process, determining the correct loading or unloading weight, monitoring during loading and unloading, closing the mobile tank after loading and unloading are completed, signing off on the mobile tank, and transporting the mobile tank.

[0071] The term "bringing at least one mobile tank to a transfer site" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not intended to be limited to any particular or adapted meaning. The term may refer, without limitation, to the process by which a mobile tank is provided at a transfer site. For this purpose, the mobile tank may be moved, particularly transported, to the transfer site.

[0072] The method may be computer controlled by a controller, thereby increasing the degree of automation.

[0073] The term "computer-controlled" as used herein is a broad term that should be ascribed its ordinary and general meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. The term is not limited to any particular or adapted meaning. Without limitation, the term may refer to any function or process that is implemented at least in part using a computer program.

[0074] The method may further include clearing or blocking the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection by the controller, such that the controller may be able to allow or prevent flow through the connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection.

[0075] The method may further include obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium.

[0076] The method may further include comparing at least one parameter with at least one specification (criteria) and clearing or blocking the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection depending on the result of the comparison. In other words, the controller may check whether the fluid medium corresponds to the specification and allow or block loading or unloading. For example, the product may be checked for correctness and purity. After the quality is approved, the line is switched to a connected fixed tank, another mobile tank, or a pipeline to a consumer, and the tank is emptied.

[0077] The method may further include detecting a demand for transshipment of a fluid medium and automatically requesting and providing at least one mobile tank for transshipment at the transshipment site according to the demand. In this case, the mobile tank may be requested by an appropriate order. For example, an order may be placed in a fully automated warehouse for mobile tanks or in-transit tanks. An order is then placed to bring the appropriate mobile tank to the transshipment site. In a fully automated system, the mobile tank in question from the tank container warehouse is picked by an automated crane and loaded onto a provided AGV chassis. This is then transported to the transshipment site by an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle for Mobile Tanks) via instructions set by a controller. In this case, the AGV positions the tank directly beneath the transshipment site so that the mobile tank can be automatically connected. In a system that is not fully automated, positioning at the loading site is performed by a driver, such as a tanker, TC, or BTC on a truck chassis; a train driver, such as a tank wagon, tank container, or BTC on a carrier wagon; or a ship captain, such as an inland tanker, using orientation marks. After the controller has located and recognized the mobile tank, it gives the operating system a command to connect the mobile tank. For this purpose, the operating system is fixedly mounted, for example, on top of the transfer site. The operating system is equipped with specially developed couplings that allow a secure and efficient connection and closure of the mobile tank. Another option, also part of this patent application, is to install the operating system at the bottom, but it makes more sense to install the operating arm at the top.

[0078] Mobile tanks may be transported in driverless industrial trucks, which allows the mobile tanks to be transported or provided automatically, reducing staffing and therefore resources.

[0079] The pipe connection may include at least one hose. The method may further include gripping and moving the hose with the actuator arm. The hose may be connected or connectable to a coupling system. The actuator arm may be designed to grip and move the hose. In contrast to a relatively rigid pipe, a hose has the advantage of being flexible and therefore more easily moved to a target location.

[0080] The method may further include removing and / or attaching a cover from and / or onto the tank nozzle of the mobile tank by the operating arm, such that removing or attaching the cover from or onto the tank nozzle does not require human labor and is therefore resource-saving.

[0081] The method may further include detecting the position and / or type of tank nozzle of the mobile tank. The results of such detection performed by the tank sensor may be used to guide an operating arm with the correct coupling to the correct position to enable automatic connection of the piping connection.

[0082] The method may further comprise at least externally cleaning the tank nozzle of the transfer tank, thereby ensuring that the fluid is not contaminated when loading or unloading.

[0083] The method may further include controlling the temperature of the transfer tank, in particular heating or cooling, to bring the fluid in the transfer tank to and maintain a predetermined temperature.

[0084] The method may further include removably connecting a temperature control connection to the mobile tank, which allows for temperature control on demand. The removably connecting connection also saves more space and allows for more flexibility.

[0085] The temperature control connection may be removably connectable to the mobile tank by means of an operating arm, so that the operating system can move not only the coupling system but also the temperature control connection to the target location, further reducing staff requirements and increasing flexibility.

[0086] The method may further include monitoring the loading status of the transfer tank, thereby ensuring that the transfer tank is not overfilled, i.e., deviating from the target amount of fluid.

[0087] The transfer site may further include at least one accessible platform. The accessible platform may have a floor with an opening and a door, particularly a flap and / or a sliding door. The floor may be located at a height exceeding the height of the mobile tank. The method may further include selectively closing and opening the opening by the door, thereby allowing an operator or employee to monitor the functioning of the logistics system. This may make the top of the mobile tank accessible to the operator or employee.

[0088] The method may further include moving the door to release the opening when the mobile tank is in place under the floor, thereby allowing an operator or employee to access the top of the mobile tank only when a mobile tank is positioned below the mobile tank, thereby improving worker safety and preventing employees from accidentally falling.

[0089] The mobile tank may have a tank number. The method may further include recording the tank number of the mobile tank by a sensor or OCR system, comparing the recorded tank number with tank numbers stored in a database, verifying whether the recorded tank number is correct, and releasing the mobile tank for loading and / or unloading if the verification of the mobile tank's tank number is correct, thereby improving safety when handling the contents of the mobile tank.

[0090] As an example, the recorded tank number may be compared to the tank number stored in the order.

[0091] You can use a check digit to check whether the tank number is correct.

[0092] The method further includes using a sensor or OCR system to recognize the identifier of the mobile tank and then applying a label or warning sign, or removing or concealing an old label or warning sign, by a machine for labeling the mobile tank according to specifications in a computer program, thereby also enabling the system to attach the appropriate and correct hazardous materials identifier to the mobile tank after loading and / or unloading.

[0093] The identifier may in particular be a dangerous goods identifier.

[0094] In a further aspect of the present invention, a computer program product is also proposed, comprising commands for causing a logistics system according to one of the embodiments described above or below in relation to the logistics system to execute the method steps according to one of the embodiments described above or below in relation to the method.

[0095] In a further aspect of the invention, what is proposed is a computer-readable medium, in particular a non-volatile computer-readable medium, on which a computer program according to the above-mentioned embodiments is stored.

[0096] Also proposed as part of the invention is a computer program which, when executed on a computer or a computer network, carries out the method according to the invention in one of its embodiments.

[0097] Also proposed as part of the invention is a computer program comprising program code means for executing, on a computer or a computer network, in one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the program code means being particularly capable of being stored on a computer-readable data carrier and / or a computer-readable storage medium.

[0098] The terms "computer-readable data carrier" and "computer-readable storage medium" as used herein may in particular denote a non-transitory data memory, e.g. a hardware data storage medium on which computer-executable instructions are stored. A computer-readable data carrier or a computer-readable storage medium may in particular be or include a storage medium, such as a random access memory (RAM) and / or a read-only memory (ROM).

[0099] Additionally proposed as part of the invention is a data carrier having stored thereon a data structure which, after being loaded into the working memory and / or main memory of a computer or computer network, is capable of carrying out the method according to the invention in one embodiment thereof.

[0100] Also proposed as part of the present invention is a method for implementing a method of processing a program that, when executed by one or more processors, causes the one or more processors to... Also proposed as part of the present invention is a computer program product comprising program code means stored on a machine-readable carrier for carrying out the method according to the present invention in one of its embodiments when the program is run on a computer or a computer network.

[0101] A computer program product is understood here to mean a program as a tradeable product, which in principle may take any form, for example on paper or on a computer-readable data carrier, and may in particular be distributed over a data transmission network.

[0102] Finally proposed as part of the present invention is a modulated data signal containing instructions executable by a computer system or computer network to carry out a method according to one of the described embodiments.

[0103] With respect to computer implementations of the present invention, one, some, or all of the method steps of a method according to one or more embodiments presented herein may be performed by a computer or computer network. Thus, generally speaking, any of the method steps involving providing and / or manipulating data may be performed by a computer or computer network method. These steps generally include any of the method steps except for certain aspects that require manual intervention, such as providing a sample and / or performing the actual measurement.

[0104] In summary, without further limiting the possible embodiments, the following embodiments are proposed: Embodiment 1: A logistics system for automated transfer of at least one fluid medium, comprising: at least one transfer site configured to perform at least one process selected from the group consisting of loading a fluid medium into a transfer tank and unloading a fluid medium from the transfer tank, the transfer site having at least one piping system with at least one pipe connection; and at least one controller, the controller being programmed to control at least one function of the logistics system; and at least one movement system having at least one movement arm and an automatic coupling system, wherein the movement arm is configured to move the coupling system, the automatic coupling system is configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle of the transfer tank, the automatic coupling system is further configured to automatically open a pipe connection at the transfer site, and the automatic coupling system is further configured to fluidly connect the tank nozzle and the pipe connection; Logistics systems, including:

[0105] Embodiment 2: The logistics system of embodiment 1, wherein the controller is configured to clear or block a fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection.

[0106] Embodiment 3: The logistics system of embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising at least one analytical device for obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium. Embodiment 4: The logistics system of embodiment 3, wherein the controller is configured to compare at least one parameter with at least one specification (standard) and clear or block the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection depending on the result of the comparison.

[0107] Embodiment 5: The logistics system of embodiment 3 or 4, wherein the parameter is selected from the group consisting of a chemical property of the fluid medium, a purity of the fluid medium, a physical property of the fluid medium, a type of the fluid medium, and a fill amount of the fluid medium in a transfer tank.

[0108] Embodiment 6: The logistics system of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the controller is configured to detect a request for transfer of the fluid medium, and the controller is further configured to automatically request at least one mobile tank for the transfer and provide it to the transfer site in accordance with the request.

[0109] Embodiment 7: The logistics system of embodiment 6, wherein the logistics system further comprises at least one warehouse for a plurality of mobile tanks.

[0110] Embodiment 8: The logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the mobile tank is mounted on a driverless industrial truck.

[0111] Embodiment 9: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the pipe connection comprises at least one hose, the hose being connected or connectable to the coupling system, and the operating arm is designed to grasp and move the hose.

[0112] Embodiment 10: A logistics system as described in embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the operating arm is designed to remove and / or install a cover from and / or onto a tank nozzle of the mobile tank.

[0113] Embodiment 11: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the transfer site further comprises at least one tank sensor, the tank sensor configured to detect the position and / or type of a tank nozzle of a mobile tank.

[0114] Embodiment 12: A logistics system according to embodiment 11, wherein the tank sensor comprises at least one optical sensor, camera, laser sensor, lidar sensor, mechanical sensor, induction sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and / or infrared sensor.

[0115] Embodiment 13: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the transfer site further comprises at least one cleaning device configured to clean at least the tank nozzle of the mobile tank from the outside.

[0116] Embodiment 14: The logistics system of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the transfer site is further configured to control the temperature of the transfer tank, particularly by heating or cooling.

[0117] Embodiment 15: The logistics system of embodiment 14, wherein the transfer site is designed for detachable connection of a temperature-controlled connection to the mobile tank.

[0118] Embodiment 16. A logistics system according to embodiment 15, wherein the operating system is for detachably connecting the temperature control connection portion to the mobile tank.

[0119] Embodiment 17: The logistics system of any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the transfer site further comprises at least one monitoring device, the monitoring device configured to monitor the loading status of the mobile tank.

[0120] Embodiment 18: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the automatic coupling system has at least one coupling piece, and the automatic coupling piece is configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle of the mobile tank upon deployment of the coupling piece.

[0121] Embodiment 19: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the transfer site further comprises at least one accessible platform, the accessible platform having a floor with an opening and a door, in particular a flap and / or a sliding door, the door being designed to selectively close and release the opening, and the floor being positioned at a height exceeding the height of the mobile tank.

[0122] Embodiment 20: A logistics system as described in embodiment 19, wherein the accessible platform floor is positioned above the mobile tank during loading and / or unloading of the mobile tank. Embodiment 21. A logistics system described in any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the controller is configured to move the door to open the opening when the mobile tank is located at a predetermined position below the floor surface.

[0123] Embodiment 22: A logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, further comprising at least one mobile tank. Embodiment 23: The logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the operating system is a robot system and the operating arm is a robotic arm.

[0124] Embodiment 24: A method for transshipment of at least one fluid medium using at least one logistics system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 23, the method comprising the steps of: (i) transporting at least one transfer tank to a transshipment site; (ii) automatically opening at least one piping connection at the transshipment site by an automatic coupling system; (iii) automatically opening at least one tank nozzle of the mobile tank by an automatic coupling system; (iv) establishing at least one fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection by an automated coupling system; and (v) performing at least one step selected from the group consisting of: loading the fluid medium from the transfer site piping system into a transfer tank; and unloading the fluid medium from the transfer tank into the transfer site piping system.

[0125] Embodiment 25: The method of embodiment 24, wherein the method is computer-controlled by a controller.

[0126] Embodiment 26: A method according to any one of the previous method embodiments, further comprising clearing or blocking the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection by the controller.

[0127] Embodiment 27: The method of any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium.

[0128] Embodiment 28: The method according to embodiment 27, further comprising comparing at least one parameter with at least one specification (standard) and clearing or blocking the fluid connection between the tank nozzle and the pipe connection according to the result of the comparison.

[0129] Embodiment 29: The method of any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising detecting a request for transfer of the fluid medium, and automatically requesting and providing at the transfer site, in accordance with the request, at least one transfer tank for the transfer.

[0130] Embodiment 30: The method according to any one of the previous method embodiments, wherein the mobile tank is transported on a driverless industrial truck.

[0131] Embodiment 31: A method according to one of the embodiments of the preceding method, wherein the pipe connection includes at least one hose, and the method further includes grasping and moving the hose with the operating arm.

[0132] Embodiment 32: The method of embodiment 31, further comprising removing and / or installing a cover from and / or onto a tank nozzle of the mobile tank by the operating arm.

[0133] Embodiment 33: The method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising detecting the position and / or type of the tank nozzle of the mobile tank.

[0134] Embodiment 34: The method of any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising at least externally cleaning the tank nozzle of the transfer tank.

[0135] Embodiment 35: A method according to any one of the previous method embodiments, further comprising controlling the temperature of the transfer tank, in particular heating or cooling it.

[0136] Embodiment 36: The method according to embodiment 35, further comprising removably connecting the temperature control connection to the mobile tank.

[0137] Embodiment 37: The method of embodiment 36, wherein the temperature control connection is detachably connected to the mobile tank by an operating arm. Embodiment 38: The method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising monitoring the loading status of the mobile tank.

[0138] Embodiment 39: A method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the transfer site further comprises at least one accessible platform, the accessible platform comprising a floor with an opening and a door, in particular a flap and / or a sliding door, the floor being positioned at a height exceeding the height of the mobile tank, and the method further comprising selectively closing and opening the opening by the door.

[0139] Embodiment 40: The method of embodiment 39, further comprising, when the mobile tank is in position under the floor, moving the door to release the opening.

[0140] Embodiment 41: A method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising recording the tank number of the mobile tank by a sensor or an OCR system, comparing the recorded tank number with tank numbers stored in a database, verifying whether the recorded tank number is correct, and releasing the mobile tank for loading and / or unloading if the verification of the tank number of the mobile tank is correct.

[0141] Embodiment 42: A method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, further comprising detecting an identifier of the mobile tank using a sensor or an OCR system, and applying a label or warning sign, or removing or concealing an old label or warning sign, by a machine for labeling the mobile tank according to specifications of a computer program.

[0142] Embodiment 43: A computer program product comprising instructions for causing a logistics system according to any one of the preceding embodiments relating to a logistics system to perform the method steps according to any one of the preceding embodiments relating to a method.

[0143] Embodiment 44: A computer-readable medium, in particular a non-volatile computer-readable medium, on which a computer program according to the previous embodiment is stored. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0144] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments, in particular in connection with the dependent claims, where each feature may be implemented alone or in combination with two or more of them. The invention is not limited to the embodiments, which are illustrated in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures relate to elements that are the same, have the same function or correspond to one another in terms of their function. More information: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a further perspective view of a logistics system according to the present invention. [Example]

[0145] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a logistics system 100 according to the invention. The logistics system 100 is configured for the automated transfer of at least one fluid medium. FIGS. 2 to 15 are further perspective views of the logistics system 100, showing various details and various steps of the method according to the invention, which will be described in detail below. The fluid medium may, in principle, be a liquid and / or a gas. The logistics system 100 comprises at least one transfer site 102. The transfer site 102 is configured to carry out at least one step selected from the group consisting of loading a mobile tank 104 with the fluid medium and unloading the fluid medium from the mobile tank 104. The transfer site 102 is fixed. Alternatively, the transfer site 102 may be mobile. The mobile tank 104 is, for example, removably mounted on a driverless industrial truck 106. The mobile tank 104 may in this case be part of the logistics system 100, but may also be part of a separate system or stand-alone. The transfer site 102 includes at least one pipe system 108. The pipe system 108 includes at least one pipe connection 110. In one example, the pipe system 108 at the transfer site 102 includes multiple pipe connections 110.

[0146] As can be seen particularly in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the logistics system 100 further includes at least one operating system 112. The operating system 112 includes at least one operating arm 114 and an automated coupling system 116. The operating arm 114 is configured to move the coupling system 116. The automated coupling system 116 is configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104. The automated coupling system 116 is further configured to automatically open the pipe connection 110 of the transfer site 102. The automated coupling system 116 is further configured to fluidly connect the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110. To this end, the automated coupling system 116 includes at least one connecting piece 120. The automated connecting piece 120 is configured to automatically open the at least one tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104 by deploying the connecting piece 120. The automatic coupling piece 120 is therefore designed in particular to open a valve arranged in or on the tank nozzle 118 as soon as the coupling piece 120 is placed on or on the tank nozzle 118. The coupling system 116 may in principle be any coupling system that operates in the manner of a quick coupling, as is the case with hose couplings. By way of example, the coupling system 116 may consist of what is known as a through coupling, a self-sealing coupling or a clean-break coupling.

[0147] The pipe connection 110 comprises at least one hose 122. The hose 122 is connected or connectable to a coupling system 116. The operating arm 114 is designed to grip and move the hose 122. The operating arm 114 is further designed to remove a cover 124 from a tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104. Alternatively or additionally, the operating arm 114 is designed to attach the cover 124 to the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104. The operating system 112 in the illustrated embodiment is a robotic system 126. The operating arm 114 is, in this case, a robotic arm 128. Alternatively or additionally, the operating system 114 may be a portal system or a machine tool with a gantry drive.

[0148] As can be seen in Fig. 4, the transfer site 102 further comprises at least one tank sensor 130. The tank sensor 130 is configured to detect the position and / or type of the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104. For this purpose, the tank sensor 130 comprises at least one optical sensor, laser sensor, probe, inductive sensor and / or infrared sensor. The tank sensor 130 is in particular fixedly connected to the operating arm 114. Alternatively, the tank sensor 130 may be detachably connected to the operating arm 114. By way of example, the operating arm 114 may be designed to grip and move the tank sensor 130.

[0149] As can be seen in FIG. 5 , the transfer site 102 further comprises at least one cleaning device 132. The cleaning device 132 is configured to externally clean at least the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104. By way of example, the cleaning device 132 comprises a spray head 134 for spraying or applying a cleaning agent and an associated cleaning hose 136. The cleaning hose 136 may be fluidly connected to the pipe system 108. Alternatively, the cleaning hose 136 may be connected to a separate cleaning pipe system. The transfer site 102 is further configured to control the temperature of the mobile tank 104. The mobile tank 104 may, in particular, be heated or cooled. For this purpose, the transfer site 102 is designed to allow a temperature control connection 138 to be detachably connected to the mobile tank 104. More precisely, the operating system 112 is designed for detachable connection of the temperature control connection 138 to the mobile tank 104. By way of example, the operation system 112 optionally comprises a further operation arm 114' for moving the temperature control connection 138. Alternatively, depending on the application, the operation arm 114 may be designed to move the temperature control connection 138. The transfer site 102 further comprises at least one monitoring device 140. The monitoring device 140 is configured to monitor the loading status of the mobile tank 104. By way of example, the monitoring device may include a fill level sensor, a pressure sensor, and / or a weight sensor, etc.

[0150] The logistics system 100 further includes at least one controller 142. The controller 142 is programmed to control at least one function of the logistics system 100. The controller 142 is configured, among other things, to clear or block a fluid connection between the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110. The controller 142 is further configured to detect a demand for a transfer of a fluid medium. The controller 142 is further configured to automatically request at least one mobile tank 104 for transfer and provide it at the transfer site 102 according to the request.

[0151] The logistics system 100 further comprises at least one analyzer 144 for obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium, the parameter being selected from the group consisting of a chemical property of the fluid medium, a purity of the fluid medium, a physical property of the fluid medium, a type of the fluid medium, and a fill volume of the fluid medium in the transfer tank 104. The controller 142 is configured to compare the at least one parameter with at least one specification and clear or block the fluid connection between the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110 depending on the result of the comparison.

[0152] In the illustrated embodiment, the transfer site 102 further optionally includes at least one accessible platform 146. The accessible platform 146 includes a floor 148 having an opening 150 and a door 152. The floor 148 is positioned at a height that exceeds the height of the mobile tank 104. As a result, the floor 148 of the accessible platform 146 is positioned above the mobile tank 104 during loading and / or unloading of the mobile tank 104. The door 152 may, in particular, be a flap and / or a sliding door 154. In the illustrated embodiment, the door 152 is a sliding door 154. The door 152 is designed to selectively close and open the opening 150. The controller 142 is configured to move the door 152 to open the opening 150 when the mobile tank 104 is positioned in a predetermined position below the floor 148. Logistics system 100 may further optionally include at least one warehouse, not shown in more detail, for a plurality of mobile tanks 104 .

[0153] A method according to the invention for the transshipment of at least one fluid medium is described below, using the logistics system 100 according to the invention. In particular, the method is computer-controlled by a controller 142.

[0154] First, as shown in FIG. 1 , at least one mobile tank 104 is delivered to the transfer site 102. An opening 150 in the accessible platform 146 is blocked by a door 152. The mobile tank 104 is transported to the transfer site 102 on or mounted on a driverless industrial truck 106. In particular, a demand for transfer of a fluid medium is detected. For example, if production monitoring reveals a demand for a given fluid medium, this triggers a demand message in the controller 142. The mobile tank 104 is then automatically requested according to the demand and provided to the transfer site 102 for transfer. This request may optionally be triggered manually. The request may also indicate that production has reached a predetermined quantity of fluid medium and that it is therefore ready for delivery, which must then be transported to the mobile tank 104.

[0155] If the transfer site 102 is equipped with a mobile tank 104, as shown in Figure 2, an opening 150 in the accessible platform 146 is opened by moving a door 152 when the mobile tank 104 is in position below the floor 148, as shown in Figure 3. Otherwise, the opening 150 remains closed by the door 152, which serves to prevent falls.

[0156] Next, the tank sensor 130 detects the position and / or type of the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104, as shown in FIG. 4. For this purpose, the tank sensor 130 is grasped or taken up by the operating arm 114 and moved along the area of ​​the mobile tank 104 where the tank nozzle 118 is located, for example, the area on the top of the mobile tank 104. The cleaning device 132 cleans the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104 at least from the outside, as shown in FIG. 5. Next, the operating arm 114 removes the cover 124 from the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104, as shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively or additionally, after the cover 124 is removed, the tank nozzle 118 may be cleaned. As shown in FIG. 7, the operating arm 114 may place the cover 124, for example, in the area of ​​the platform 146.

[0157] Next, the operating arm 114 grasps the hose 122 of the pipe connection 110, as shown in FIG. 8, and moves it to the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104, as shown in FIG. 9. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the operating arm 114 may connect multiple hoses 122 to multiple tank nozzles 118 of the mobile tank 104. The hoses 122 are coupled or pre-coupled to the coupling device 116. Upon placement of the coupling piece 120 of the coupling system 116, the tank nozzle 118 of the mobile tank 104 is automatically opened. The pipe connection 110 is then automatically opened by the coupling system 116. At least one fluid connection between the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110 is thereby established by the automatic coupling system 116. The controller 142 may clear or block the fluid connection between the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110. Thus, at least one parameter of the fluid medium is obtained by the analyzer 144. The at least one parameter is compared with at least one specification. The fluid connection between the tank nozzle 118 and the pipe connection 110 is then cleared or blocked according to the result of the comparison. In this manner, the controller 142 opens the valve of the pipe connection 110 on condition that the parameter corresponds to the specification, and closes the valve if the parameter deviates from the specification. For example, if the fluid medium and its properties correspond to the required fluid medium and its properties, the fluid connection is cleared, and if not, it is blocked.

[0158] When the fluid connection is released, the transfer tank 104 is loaded or unloaded. Circulation of the fluid medium in the circuit is also possible, and in this case the loading status of the transfer tank 104 is monitored.

[0159] The mobile tank 104 or the fluid medium therein may optionally have its temperature controlled, for example heated or cooled. For this purpose, a temperature control connection 138 may be detachably connected to the mobile tank 104, as shown in FIG. 12. The temperature control connection 138 is detachably connected to the mobile tank 104 by a further operating arm 114'. Temperature control is in this case carried out in particular during the loading and / or unloading of the fluid medium. The temperature control connection 138 is then detached again from the mobile tank 104 by the robot arm 128.

[0160] Optionally, the tank number of the mobile tank 104 may be recorded by a sensor or an OCR system. The recorded tank number is compared with tank numbers stored in a database, such as an order for providing the mobile tank 104. This verifies whether the recorded tank number is correct. The tank number may be verified as correct using a check digit. The mobile tank is released for loading and / or unloading only if the verification of the mobile tank's tank number is correct; otherwise, the release does not occur.

[0161] Optionally, a sensor or OCR system may be used to recognize the mobile tank's identifier, and a machine for labeling the mobile tank, such as a labeling machine, may apply a label or warning sign or remove or cover the old label or warning sign according to the specifications of a computer program. The identifier may in particular be a hazardous materials identifier. This also allows the system to attach the appropriate and correct hazardous materials identifier to the mobile tank after loading and / or unloading.

[0162] After the loading and / or unloading process, the pipe connection 110 and the coupling system 116 are again detached from the tank nozzle 118 by the robotic arm 128, as shown in Figure 13. The tank nozzle 118 is again closed with the cover 124, as shown in Figure 14. After the mobile tank 104 is unloaded, the opening 150 in the platform 146 is closed by a door 152, which serves to prevent it from falling. The mobile tank 104 may then be removed from the transfer site 102. For example, the mobile tank 104 is transported from the transfer site 102 by a driverless industrial truck 106, as shown in Figures 15 and 16. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] List of reference numbers 100 Logistics System 102 Transshipment Site 104 Mobile Tank 106 Driverless Industrial Truck 108 Pipe System 110 Pipe connection 112 Movement System 114 Moving Arm 114' Further movement arm 116 Coupling System 118 Tank Nozzle 120 Connecting piece 122 Hose 124 Cover 126 Robot Systems 128 Robot Arm 130 Tank Sensor 132 Cleaning equipment 134 spray head 136 Cleaning hose 138 Temperature Control Connection 140 Monitoring equipment 142 Controller 144 Analyzer 146 Platform 148 beds 150 aperture 152 doors 154 Sliding Door

Claims

1. A logistics system (100) for the automated transfer of at least one fluid medium, comprising: a. at least one transshipment site (102), said transshipment site (102) comprising: at least one transfer site (102) configured to perform at least one process selected from the group consisting of loading a fluid medium into a mobile tank (104) and unloading a fluid medium from the mobile tank (104), the transfer site (102) having at least one pipe system (108) having at least one pipe connection (110); and b. at least one controller (142), the controller (142) programmed to control at least one function of the logistics system (100); and c. at least one operating system (112) having at least one operating arm (114) and an automatic coupling system (116), the operating arm (114) configured to operate the coupling system (116), and the automatic coupling system (116) configured to automatically open at least one tank nozzle (118) of the mobile tank (104); wherein the automatic coupling system (116) is further configured to automatically open the pipe connection (110) at the transfer site (102), and the automatic coupling system (116) is further configured to fluidly connect the tank nozzle (118) and the pipe connection (110).

2. 2. The logistics system (100) of claim 1, wherein the controller (142) is configured to clear or block a fluid connection between the tank nozzle (118) and the pipe connection (110).

3. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one analytical device (144) for obtaining at least one parameter of the fluid medium.

4. 4. The logistics system (100) of claim 3, wherein the controller (142) is configured to compare the at least one parameter with at least one specification and, depending on a result of the comparison, clear or block a fluid connection between the tank nozzle (118) and the pipe connection (110).

5. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller (142) is configured to detect a demand for the transfer of the fluid medium, and the controller (142) is further configured to automatically request at least one mobile tank (104) for the transfer and provide it at the transfer site (102) according to the demand.

6. 3. A logistics system (100) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the pipe connection (110) comprises at least one hose (122), the hose (122) being connected or connectable to the coupling system (116), and the operating arm (144) being designed to grasp and move the hose (122).

7. 6. The logistics system (100) of claim 5, wherein the operating arm (114) is designed to remove and / or install a cover (124) from and / or onto the tank nozzle (118) of the mobile tank (104).

8. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the transfer site (102) further comprises at least one tank sensor (130), the tank sensor (130) configured to detect the position and / or type of the tank nozzle (118) of the mobile tank (104).

9. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the transfer site (102) further comprises at least one cleaning device (132), the cleaning device (132) configured to clean at least the external surface of the tank nozzle (118) of the mobile tank (104).

10. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the transfer site (102) is further configured to control the temperature of the transfer tank (104), in particular by heating or cooling.

11. 11. The logistics system (100) of claim 10, wherein the transfer site (102) is designed for detachable connection of a temperature-controlled connection (138) to the mobile tank (104), and the operating system (112) is specifically designed for detachable connection of the temperature-controlled connection (138) to the mobile tank (104).

12. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the transfer site (102) further comprises at least one monitoring device (140), the monitoring device (140) configured to monitor the loading status of the mobile tank (104).

13. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the automatic coupling system (116) has at least one coupling piece (120), and the automatic coupling piece (120) is configured to automatically open the at least one tank nozzle (118) of the mobile tank (104) upon deployment of the coupling piece (120).

14. 3. The logistics system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the motion system (112) is a robotic system (126) and the motion arm (114) is a robotic arm (128).

15. 3. A method for the transshipment of at least one fluid medium using at least one logistics system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the following steps: transporting at least one mobile tank (104) to a transfer site (102); ii. automatically opening at least one pipe connection (110) at the transfer site (102) by an automatic coupling system (116); iii. automatically opening at least one tank nozzle (118) of the transfer tank (104) by an automatic coupling system (116); iv. establishing at least one fluid connection between the tank nozzle (118) and the pipe connection (110) by an automatic coupling system (116); and v. performing at least one process selected from the group consisting of loading a fluid medium from a pipe system (108) at the transfer site (102) into a transfer tank (104) and unloading the fluid medium from the transfer tank (104) into the pipe system (108) at the transfer site (102); A method comprising:

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