System for transporting objects comprising a reusable container - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention relates to a subsystem for assessing wear of a machine element, the subsystem comprising: a vibration sensor (11) connected to the electronic processing means (2) and coupled to the mechanical element; a vibration generator (3) intended to generate vibrations that are transmitted to said machine element, The generator (3) is configured to generate a vibration sequence; the electronic processing means (2) is programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of the mechanical element; ○Start the vibration generator (3), analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator (3) and captured by the vibration sensor (11) to determine a captured vibration profile of the machine element; Configured to issue notifications regarding degradation of the captured vibration profile.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The field of the invention is that of logistics.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to a system and method for transporting objects using reusable containers intended to contain the objects. [Background technology]

[0003] Traditionally, delivery of an object involves the use of a container intended to contain the object and form a protective shell around the item.

[0004] Cardboard is the simplest way to form such containers, and these cardboards are unable or barely able to withstand any deliveries beyond the initial delivery, and in fact, they will inelastically tear or deform if subjected to too great an impact or careless handling.

[0005] Reusable boxes are increasingly being used to transport objects. These reusable boxes are designed with stronger materials than cardboard. For example, such reusable boxes may be made of reinforced plastics such as expanded polystyrene, which has much greater durability than cardboard.

[0006] These reusable boxes may be provided with built-in electronics, for example an external screen to display delivery information on the exterior of the container if required, thereby avoiding the use of adhesive labels that are printed for each delivery of a package formed by one of the reusable boxes.

[0007] This technology allows for the creation of packages in which the container (box) used for delivery is not intended to be discarded after the initial delivery.

[0008] However, by the very nature of delivery, these reusable boxes are subjected to shock and potentially destructive handling, and therefore, despite considerable efforts to make them durable, deterioration of these reusable boxes is inevitable.

[0009] Therefore, various components of these boxes can become damaged and weakened.

[0010] For example, the walls of these boxes can become damaged, split, cracked, or misshapen, rendering the box difficult to use or even completely useless, and in fact, the contents of the box can be damaged or even lost during delivery.

[0011] Thus, deterioration of the walls of these reusable boxes makes them unusable as delivery containers.

[0012] As a result, the condition of these reusable boxes must be inspected periodically to prevent deteriorated boxes from being reused.

[0013] Given the large number of reusable boxes that may be used as part of a system for transporting objects, inspection of each of these reusable boxes can become problematic.

[0014] This inspection of the box for wear and tear traditionally requires a human operator, who may correspond, for example, to the person who just received the reusable box, who may then observe and inspect the condition of the reusable box before returning it.

[0015] Such testing may not be thorough and is inherently subjective, so wear and tear may go undetected. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0016] The present invention is particularly aimed at addressing this problem.

[0017] More specifically, the invention aims to propose a subsystem for assessing the wear and tear of a physical element of a device, the subsystem being integrated into that device.

[0018] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a reusable container that incorporates the wear assessment subsystem of the present invention.

[0019] The invention further aims to propose a system for transporting objects that uses reusable containers that can be easily inspected for wear despite the large number of reusable containers.

[0020] It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a system that allows for more reliable detection of wear and tear during inspection of reusable containers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0021] These and other objects that will appear later are achieved thanks to the invention, which relates to a subsystem for assessing the wear of at least one physical element constituting a device, said subsystem being integrated into said device, the subsystem comprising at least one vibration sensor connected to an electronic processing means and coupled to a physical element; The subsystem further comprises: - at least one vibration generator intended to generate vibrations that are transmitted to said physical element, the generator being configured to generate vibration sequences having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; the electronic processing means is programmed with at least one normal vibration profile of the physical element; - periodically starting the vibration generator or automatically starting the vibration generator after the detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor connected to the electronic processing means or starting the vibration generator upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem, analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator and captured by the vibration sensor to determine a captured vibration profile of the physical element; - issuing a notification regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element.

[0022] In other words, the electronic processing means are programmed to, substantially in parallel, on the one hand, bring about the generation of a series of vibrations or vibration profiles that are transmitted to the physical element, and on the other hand, directly or indirectly capture the generated vibrations that are retransmitted by and therefore through the physical element.

[0023] Thanks to these technical features, the wear assessment subsystem integrates its own vibration generator, generates a reference vibration profile and subjects the monitored physical element to the reference vibration profile directly or indirectly. Thus, for the analysis, the vibration source is fully controlled and the generated vibrations are reproducible. Therefore, by comparing the captured vibration data forming the analyzed vibration profile with the reference vibration profile, the aging progress of the physical element can be tracked.

[0024] Furthermore, the wear assessment subsystem has the advantage of autonomously ensuring the monitoring of the physical element under observation and allowing for self-diagnosis.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reference vibration profile of the physical element or one of the reference vibration profiles of the physical element corresponds to the vibration profile of the physical element in a new state, or in a repaired state, or in a transient state determined by vibration analysis at a given moment in time.

[0026] According to another solution, the reference vibration profile of the physical element or one of the reference vibration profiles of the physical element corresponds to a set of vibration profiles of the physical element previously analysed by electronic processing means.

[0027] According to one particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the vibration generator and / or the vibration sensor are directly coupled to the physical element, in other words, they are in direct contact with the physical element to be observed and therefore have a common interface, which makes it possible to obtain the vibration signature of said physical element throughout the life of the product in which it is integrated.

[0028] Thanks to these characteristics, only the response to the vibration profile of the physical elements integrated into the device is analyzed, thus making it possible to accurately determine the maintenance, repair or replacement of said physical elements when a wear threshold is exceeded, unlike indirect couplings that provide the vibration response of an assembly or mechanism of elements, which leaves the identification of fatigued physical elements unfinished.

[0029] According to one particular embodiment of the invention, the vibration sensor is selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer, a velocimeter, a displacement sensor, and a resistive strain gauge.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the invention further provides a reusable container intended to contain an object, forming a device comprising a physical element and a wear assessment subsystem.

[0031] Thus, a container-type device permanently containing the entire wear assessment subsystem according to the present invention can assess the level of wear of the physical element under monitoring at any time and as needed throughout its life.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a one-time request to activate the wear assessment subsystem is issued when the vessel is in a baseline state.

[0033] Thanks to this feature, the acquisition of a new inspection, observation, or monitoring vibration profile can be performed under conditions similar to those under which the reference vibration profile of the physical element under monitoring was acquired. For example, the reference condition is a state in which the device is equipped with the physical element under monitoring and the assembly is unused and stationary. Calibration can be performed, for example, by acquiring the reference vibration profile in a new state at the exit of a production line of the device equipped with the wear assessment subsystem, as described below. The reference vibration profile is therefore specific to the physical element under observation. Therefore, tracking of aging is individualized and specific to the physical element under observation. In other words, the acquisition of a new vibration profile on demand under a condition similar to the reference condition, i.e., a known, substantially reproducible condition, makes the comparative analysis of the vibration profile and the diagnosis of fatigue or wear of the physical element of the device thus equipped more reliable.

[0034] It is understood that the reference state may be defined according to other criteria. For example, in the case of a container, the reference state may be a state in which the container is not empty but has a defined load placed within it. This defined load is selected to highlight a particular characteristic of the container with the vibration profile being recorded and analyzed.

[0035] According to one advantageous embodiment of the invention, the physical element to which the vibration generator is coupled is the wall of said container.

[0036] According to one particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the container is provided with a display device intended to be visible to a user of the system, and the electronic processing means are configured to display on the display device a notification regarding a deterioration of the captured vibration profile, said notification being issued by the wear assessment subsystem.

[0037] Thus, a device integrating a wear assessment subsystem, here a container, can inform the user of its condition and its deterioration.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the present invention further provides a preventive maintenance system comprising a wear assessment subsystem, a remote server, and means of communication with the remote server for each subsystem, the remote server being configured to record notifications regarding deterioration of the vibration profile captured by each wear assessment subsystem.

[0039] Thanks to these technical features, each wear assessment subsystem is managed and a history of notifications regarding the deterioration of the vibration profile of the physical element under surveillance is kept.

[0040] Furthermore, collecting vibration profiles of several wear assessment subsystems coupled to the same type of physical element allows cross-referencing of the aging and degradation history of said element, facilitating the establishment of preventive maintenance strategies to predict failures and breakdowns.

[0041] According to one particular embodiment of the invention, each wear assessment subsystem is integrated into a container forming a population of reusable object-carrying containers managed by a preventive maintenance system.

[0042] Thanks to this technical feature, the wear and tear of the vessel population is monitored for preventive maintenance purposes.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the invention further provides a method for assessing wear of at least one physical element constituting an apparatus, the apparatus integrating a wear assessment subsystem for implementing the method, the wear assessment subsystem comprising: at least one vibration sensor connected to electronic processing means and coupled to a physical element; at least one vibration generator intended to generate vibrations that are transmitted to said physical element, the generator is configured to generate a vibration sequence having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; the electronic processing means is programmed with at least one normal vibration profile of the physical element; The method is: - periodically starting the vibration generator or automatically starting the vibration generator after the detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor connected to the electronic processing means or starting the vibration generator upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem, analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator and captured by the vibration sensor to determine a captured vibration profile of the physical element; - issuing a notification regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element.

[0044] Moreover, the present invention further relates to a system for transporting objects, the system comprising: a reusable container intended to contain an object; at least one accelerometer per vessel; electronic processing means, a subsystem for assessing wear on the reusable container, the subsystem comprising: - comprising at least one vibration generator intended to generate vibrations in at least one wall of at least one of the reusable containers, the generator is configured to generate a vibration sequence having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; for each vessel, the electronic processing means is programmed with at least one reference vibration profile for the vessel; -analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator and captured by the accelerometer to determine a captured vibration profile of the vessel; - configured to issue a notification regarding a deterioration of the captured vibration profile compared to at least one reference vibration profile of the vessel.

[0045] Thanks to the object transport system according to the invention, a reusable container can have its wear assessed using a vibration sequence generated by a vibration generator, thanks to the capture of these vibrations by an accelerometer of said reusable container and the analysis of these vibrations.

[0046] Wear and tear on the container corresponds to, for example, weakening, shattering, deterioration, or breakage of the container.

[0047] By analyzing the generated vibrations, the captured vibration profile can be compared to a reference vibration profile.

[0048] By comparing this captured vibration profile with a reference vibration profile, the level of degradation of the vibration profile can be determined, whether a predetermined level of degradation has been reached or exceeded, and further the location of the degradation on the vessel can be determined.

[0049] This wear assessment of the reusable containers is done without necessarily requiring an operator to perform, for example, a visual inspection of the containers. Preventive, for example, automated, maintenance of the containers of the system is possible.

[0050] By comparing and analyzing the captured vibration profile with a reference vibration profile, visually undetectable wear can be detected to avoid using a container that would not be suitable for actually transporting an object.

[0051] According to one preferred variant, the reusable containers are reusable wrapping boxes each equipped with at least one accelerometer.

[0052] In this case, the normal vibration profile of the container corresponds to the normal vibration profile of the reusable box.

[0053] Such application of the system according to the invention to "reusable packet" type containers is particularly advantageous in that these boxes are potentially subjected to destructive handling during their transport for delivery, and therefore it is important to be able to inspect their reusability.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, each container integrates at least one vibration generator, and the electronic processing means are configured to activate the vibration generator or generators.

[0055] In this way, inspection of the structural integrity of the container can be performed autonomously, even when the container is being used for delivery or waiting to be used for delivery, where the electronic processing means activates one or more vibration generators integrated into the container, captures the vibrations using an accelerometer integrated into the container, and then analyzes the vibrations.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the system includes an external vibration generator separate from the reusable box.

[0057] Such an external generator can be used by a human operator or an automaton intended to contact said generator with the wall of the box to be inspected.

[0058] Preferably, the system comprises, for each container, a computer unit which at least partly forms the electronic processing means.

[0059] This allows analysis of the vibrations generated by the vibration generator directly using the computer unit of the container.

[0060] The computer unit can then independently issue notifications regarding the captured vibration profile and, if necessary, shut down the vessel if the wear is too great or request that it be returned for maintenance.

[0061] According to one preferred design, the computer unit is integrated into the container, preferably into one of the container walls.

[0062] Thus, the integration of the computer unit into the enclosure is optimized.

[0063] According to another preferred design, the computer unit is added onto the container, the system comprising means for coupling the computer unit to the container.

[0064] In other words, the coupling means ensure the integration and mechanical connection of the computer unit added onto the container.

[0065] This allows the computer unit to be used with various types of containers, and potentially containers that were not originally designed to form part of a system according to the present invention.

[0066] Advantageously, the system comprises a remote server and means of communication with the remote server for each container, the remote server being adapted to record notifications regarding deterioration of the captured vibration profile.

[0067] In this way, the remote server compiles together notifications regarding degradation of the captured vibration profiles of the vessels of the system.

[0068] This avoids having to return and inspect each container in the system to determine its degradation.

[0069] The remote server may advantageously be configured to schedule preventative maintenance for a vessel upon receiving notification of a deterioration in the vessel's captured vibration profile.

[0070] The system therefore greatly simplifies the task of maintaining the vessel.

[0071] Advantageously, the remote server may at least partly form the electronic processing means.

[0072] In this case, analysis of the vibrations generated by the vibration generator and captured by the accelerometer to determine the captured vibration profile of the container can be performed by electronic means more sophisticated than the electronic means of the container's computer unit.

[0073] The communication means for each vessel is designed to transmit data relating to the vibrations captured by the accelerometer to a remote server, which analyzes these vibrations.

[0074] According to one preferred solution, the generator is configured to generate at least two vibration sequences with at least two different predetermined frequencies and / or at least two different predetermined amplitudes.

[0075] Multiple vibration sequences can improve the detection of possible structural defects in the container.

[0076] According to one advantageous solution, the reference vibration profile of the vessel or one of the reference vibration profiles of the vessel corresponds to the vibration profile of the vessel in a new state, or in a repaired state, or in a transient state determined by vibration analysis at a given moment in time.

[0077] The vibration profile of the vessel in its new state corresponds to the vibrations captured by the vessel's accelerometer after the vibrations are emitted by the vibration generator of the system after the vessel is designed and manufactured. Such a reference vibration profile allows for accurate calibration of the initial level of the vibration profile.

[0078] The vibration profile of the container in a transient state corresponds to the vibration captured by the accelerometer of the container after the vibration is emitted by the vibration generator of the system at a given moment, for example automatically after use of the container or at the request of a remote server.

[0079] According to another solution, the reference vibration profile of the container or one of the reference vibration profiles of the container corresponds to a set of vibration profiles of the container previously analyzed by electronic processing means.

[0080] Therefore, the system uses artificial intelligence to analyze such data streams, and in this way the quality of the reference vibration profile can be improved through the experience and observation of degradation of the artificial intelligence.

[0081] Advantageously, the electronic processing means is arranged to periodically activate the vibration generator or to activate the vibration generator automatically after detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor on the container.

[0082] Thus, periodic inspections of the structural condition of the vessel can be carried out and progress of wear can be noted to allow the most precise planning of maintenance of deteriorated vessels.

[0083] The predetermined event may correspond to a drop or a large impact on the container. Detection of such an event may be performed, for example, using an accelerometer. Performing a test following such a predetermined event is particularly advantageous in that it makes it possible to know directly whether the predetermined event has caused deterioration of the container that is likely to render it useless.

[0084] According to one advantageous feature, the system comprises a display device intended to be visible to a user of the system, and the electronic processing means are configured to display on the display device a notice regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile.

[0085] In this way, the system allows the user of the system to be informed directly and without delay of any deterioration observed in the container.

[0086] The invention further relates to a method for transporting objects using reusable containers intended to contain the objects and each equipped with an accelerometer, During the evaluation of the wear and tear on one of the containers, generating a vibration sequence having a predetermined frequency and amplitude on one wall of the reusable container; - Vibrations transmitted through the container wall are captured by an accelerometer, - analyzing the captured vibrations to assess wear and tear on the reusable container.

[0087] Thus, for example, scheduling shipment to a repair center allows preventative maintenance of reusable containers for transporting other objects.

[0088] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on understanding the following description of various preferred embodiments of the invention given as illustrative and non-limiting examples and the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0089] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a system for transporting items according to the invention, comprising a reusable container in the form of a reusable packet. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of an object transport system according to the invention, including an optional container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0090] The subsystem for assessing wear of at least one physical element according to the present invention is intended to be integrated into the device containing the physical element to be monitored. Therefore, such a wear assessment subsystem is a subassembly that is incorporated into a third-party device. An example of a third-party device is described below, using a reusable container 1 that incorporates such a wear assessment subsystem.

[0091] According to the present invention, such a subsystem comprises: at least one vibration sensor 11 physically coupled directly or indirectly to the physical element to be observed; at least one vibration generator 3 intended to generate vibrations that are transmitted directly or indirectly to the physical elements of the support device;

[0092] Furthermore, this vibration sensor 11 is communicatively connected to electronic processing means 2. As will be explained later in this specification, the electronic processing means 2 is programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element, - periodically starting the vibration generator 3 or automatically starting the vibration generator 3 after the detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor connected to the electronic processing means 2 or starting the vibration generator 3 upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem, - analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator 3 and captured by the vibration sensor 11 to determine a captured vibration profile of the physical element; - issuing a notification regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element.

[0093] In Figures 1 and 2 the wear assessment subsystem is shown fully integrated into the apparatus and system described below, all containers of the system forming a transport fleet within the meaning of the present invention.

[0094] The object transport system according to the invention shown in FIG. 1 therefore implements the method for transporting objects according to the invention.

[0095] 1 and 2, the object transport system includes: a reusable container 1, - electronic processing means 2;

[0096] The system further comprises a remote server 4 .

[0097] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the reusable container 1 is a reusable packaging box. These boxes can be used to send items in the form of packages.

[0098] Referring to Figure 2, the container 1 shown is a shipping box.

[0099] In accordance with the principles of the present invention with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system further comprises a subsystem for assessing wear and tear on the reusable container 1 .

[0100] This evaluation subsystem comprises at least one vibration generator 3 intended to generate vibrations on at least one wall of the reusable container 1. This or these generators 3 are designed to generate at least one vibration sequence having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude.

[0101] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the evaluation subsystem comprises at least one vibration generator 3 integrated into each container 1 .

[0102] More specifically, each vessel 1 is equipped with two vibration generators 3 .

[0103] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the evaluation subsystem comprises only one vibration generator 3 integrated into the container 1 .

[0104] According to one possible embodiment, the vibration generator 3 is an external generator, separate from the reusable container 1. This external generator is attached to the surface of one wall of the container 1 and is intended to generate a vibration sequence with a predetermined frequency and amplitude.

[0105] According to another possible embodiment, the system may comprise a vibration generator 3 integrated in each container 1 and an external vibration generator 3 .

[0106] 1, each reusable container 1 in the form of a box is composed of a case 101 and a lid 102. The lid 102 is attached to the case 101 so as to be movable between a closed position of the case 101 and an open position that allows access to the interior space bounded by the case 101 and, optionally, to objects contained by the reusable box. In particular, the interior space of the case 101 is bounded by a bottom wall and several side walls extending from the bottom wall, the side walls abutting one another to form a peripheral contour of the interior space.

[0107] In this case, the lid 102 is pivotally attached to the case 101 .

[0108] A vibration generator 3 is integrated into one of the walls of the case 101 of the reusable box shown in the figure, and another vibration generator 3 is integrated into the wall of the lid 102 of the reusable box.

[0109] By using at least two vibration generators 3, the locations of vibration generation in the wall of the reusable container 1 can be increased.

[0110] The vibration generator 3 can take a variety of forms.

[0111] The vibration generator 3 can be formed by a vibrating element such as, for example, a weight or an unbalanced propeller.

[0112] It is further conceivable that the vibration generator 3 is formed by a vibrating surface (for example a membrane of a speaker) or by an ultrasonic generator.

[0113] These generators 3 are configured to generate said at least one vibration sequence having a predetermined frequency and amplitude. Advantageously, at least two vibration sequences having different predetermined frequencies and amplitudes are generated.

[0114] The vibration sequence may have a single frequency or multiple frequencies, with the frequency of vibration varying as the sequence progresses, and the vibration sequence may have a single amplitude or multiple amplitudes, with the amplitude of vibration varying as the sequence progresses.

[0115] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the system comprises, for each container 1: at least one accelerometer 11; a computer unit 12; means 13 for communicating with a remote server 4; -Screen 14 and a capacitor intended to store electrical energy and in particular to power the electronic functions of each container 1, including the accelerometer 11, the computer unit 12, the communication means 13 and the screen 14;

[0116] The accelerometer 11 is designed, inter alia, to capture the vibrations generated by the generator(s) 3 and transmitted through the walls of the vessel 1 .

[0117] The screen 14 is located on the exterior surface of the reusable container 1 and is intended to be visible from the outside.

[0118] Such a screen 14 can display handling information for the reusable container 1, such as the destination of the container 1, for example.

[0119] More generally, the system comprises a display device 5 intended to be visible to a user U of the system.

[0120] This display device 5 may for example be formed by a screen 14 of each container 1 .

[0121] Further, with reference to FIG. 1, the display device 5 may alternatively or supplement the screen 14 be formed by an electronic device 51 of the user U, such as a smartphone.

[0122] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the remote server comprises a data exchange means 41 and an electronic processing unit 42 .

[0123] The data exchange means 41 of the remote server 4 are designed to allow sending and receiving data to and from the respective container 1 via the communication means 13 .

[0124] According to one embodiment, the electronic processing means 2 are formed by a computer unit 12 of each container 1 .

[0125] According to another possible embodiment, the electronic processing means 2 are formed by an electronic processing unit 42 of the remote server 4 .

[0126] Finally, according to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the electronic processing means 2 are formed in part by the computer unit 12 of the respective container 1 and by the electronic processing unit 42 of the remote server 4 .

[0127] With reference to FIG. 1, a computer unit 12 is integrated into the container 1, in particular into one of the walls of the container 1.

[0128] More specifically, the enclosure 1 is designed to have, in one of its walls, a housing that is complementary in shape to the computer unit 12 .

[0129] 2, a computer unit 12 is added onto the container 1. The system then comprises means for coupling the computer unit 12 to the container 1.

[0130] The computer unit 12 may take the form of an electronic tablet.

[0131] The coupling means may take the form of adhesive, and / or fastening tabs, and / or screws, and / or any other means that make it possible to couple the computer unit 12 to the container 1 .

[0132] According to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the vibration generator 3 is integrated into the vessel 1 but is separate from the computer unit 12 .

[0133] The vibration generators 3 are then connected to the computer unit 12 via a wired or wireless connection. These vibration generators 3 may be provided with their own power supply means and may be integrated into one of the walls of the vessel 1 or fixed to one of the walls of the vessel 1.

[0134] It is conceivable that the vibration generator 3 is integrated into the computer unit 12 .

[0135] In a similar way, the accelerometer 11 may be integrated into the container 1 within the computer unit 12 and / or outside the computer unit 12 .

[0136] Referring to FIG. 1, only one accelerometer is integrated into the container 1 outside the computer unit 12 .

[0137] However, according to another possible embodiment, this single accelerometer 11 can be integrated into the computer unit 12 .

[0138] 2, two accelerometers 11 are integrated into the vessel 1: one outside the computer unit 12 and one inside the computer unit 12.

[0139] If the accelerometer 11 is integrated outside the computer unit 12, it is connected to the computer unit 12 via a wired or wireless connection, it may be provided with its own power supply means, and finally it is integrated into one of the walls of the container 1 or fixed to one of the walls of the container 1.

[0140] According to the principles of the invention, for each vessel 1 the electronic processing means 2 are programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of the vessel 1 .

[0141] This reference vibration profile may correspond, for example, to the vibration profile of a new model of the vessel 1 .

[0142] The reference vibration profile may also correspond to a repaired state of the vessel 1 or to a transient state determined by vibration analysis at a given moment.

[0143] This predetermined moment may correspond to the occurrence of an event that occurs to the container 1 and is captured by a sensor of the container 1, such as the accelerometer 11. For example, a drop of the container 1 may be followed by an impact of the container 1, which may be captured by the accelerometer 11.

[0144] The reference vibration profile may correspond to an artificial intelligence analysis of a set of pre-analyzed vibration profiles of the container 1. In this case, it is advantageous for the container 1 to have a standardized design and format, as is the case for the container 1 of the embodiment of Figure 1, which is a reusable package.

[0145] The reference vibration profile or profiles are advantageously established when the vessel 1 is empty.

[0146] For this purpose, the system is configured to detect that the container 1 is empty, for example using a weight sensor or a camera located inside the container 1, to authorize the establishment of a reference vibration profile.

[0147] The reference vibration profile or profiles may further be established after the container 1 has been loaded and closed.

[0148] The electronic processing means 2 - analyzing the vibrations generated by the one or more vibration generators 3 and captured by the accelerometer 11 to determine a captured vibration profile of the vessel 1; - configured to issue a notification regarding a deterioration of the captured vibration profile compared to a reference vibration profile of the vessel 1.

[0149] Of course, issuing a notification regarding degradation of the captured vibration profile relative to the reference vibration profile involves analyzing the captured vibration profile relative to the reference vibration profile. Degradation of the captured vibration profile may be observed and a notification may be issued from a predetermined degree of degradation below which degradation does not result in invalidation.

[0150] Analysis can be performed to determine the type, severity, and location on the vessel 1 of the wear using the differences between the reference vibration profile and the captured vibration profile.

[0151] As mentioned above, each container 1 may be in communication with a remote server 4 .

[0152] In this way, the remote server 4 receives notification of any degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to the reference vibration profile of the vessel 1 .

[0153] This remote server 4 is configured to record this notification.

[0154] If the analysis is performed by the electronic processing unit 42 of the remote server 4, a notification is emitted to the container 1.

[0155] Advantageously, the remote server 4 is configured to schedule preventative maintenance for the vessel 1 upon receiving notification of an excessive degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to the reference vibration profile.

[0156] Preventive maintenance of the container 1 can simply be recorded and planned on the remote server 4, which will be associated with the identifier of the container 1 that has deteriorated too much, resulting in the maintenance of the container 1 as soon as it arrives at a location where it will be repaired or at least removed from the object transport circuit.

[0157] Advantageously, the remote server 4 is arranged to return maintenance request information to the container 1 .

[0158] Upon receiving this maintenance request information, the system's electronic processing means 2 is programmed to place the container 1 in a non-use setting.

[0159] In this case, the electronic processing means 2 inform the user U, for example via the screen 14, that the container 1 cannot transport the object, and display on the screen 14 of the container 1 the location of the maintenance center for the container 1.

[0160] The container 1 can then be sent to a maintenance center for maintenance.

[0161] Advantageously, the electronic processing means 2 are arranged to periodically activate the vibration generator 3 .

[0162] In this way, periodic verification of the integrity of the reusable container 1 is performed.

[0163] The periodicity of the start of the vibration generator 3 is - if slight deterioration in the vibration profile of vessel 1 compared to its new state is recorded, widely spaced in time, - It may be approached in time as soon as an increasingly larger degradation of the captured vibration profile compared to the reference vibration profile is detected.

[0164] The electronic processing means 2 may also request activation of the wear assessment subsystem from time to time and start the vibration generator 3 .

[0165] This activation may be due to a command or request from a remote server 4, an action taken on the container 1, or may be due to automation, the trigger being an impact to the container 1 detected by a sensor on the container 1, such as an accelerometer 11.

[0166] The electronic processing means 2 may further require activation of a wear assessment subsystem following a request to make a delivery using the container 1 or following closure of the container 1 after delivery to ensure that the container 1 is capable of making the delivery.

[0167] The electronic processing means 2 may further request the activation of the wear assessment subsystem after the detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor of the container 1. If, after this assessment, it is considered that the container 1 is able to continue with deliveries, a new reference vibration profile may be established as described above.

[0168] In this way, it becomes easier to determine, as accurately as possible, as soon as a degradation threshold that invalidates the use of a reusable container is reached or exceeded.

[0169] For the avoidance of doubt, the system comprises a display device 5 intended to be visible to a user U of the system.

[0170] The electronic processing means 2 is configured to display on the display device 5 a notice regarding the degradation of the captured vibration profile.

[0171] The transport method according to the invention uses reusable containers 1 intended to contain objects and each equipped with at least one accelerometer 11 .

[0172] The method comprises assessing wear on the reusable container.

[0173] The step of assessing wear on the reusable containers may include, during assessment of wear on one of the containers: generating a vibration sequence having a predetermined frequency and amplitude on one wall of the reusable container; - Vibrations transmitted through the container wall are captured by an accelerometer, -analyzing the captured vibrations.

[0174] The generation of a vibration sequence with a predetermined frequency and amplitude is performed by a vibration generator 3 .

[0175] Advantageously, the vibration generator 3 is integrated directly into the container 1 , more particularly on or in one wall of the container 1 , so that this generation of vibration sequences takes place directly at the wall of the container 1 .

[0176] As explained above, this generation of vibration sequences with predetermined frequencies and amplitudes may further result in the generation of other vibration sequences with other predetermined frequencies and amplitudes.

[0177] Vibrations transmitted through one or more walls of the vessel 1 can be captured by the accelerometer 11, allowing the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations to be captured after they have traveled through the walls.

[0178] This capture of vibrations allows the captured vibration profile to be determined.

[0179] Analysis of the captured vibrations can then determine whether degradation of the container 1 has occurred.

[0180] This analysis implements an algorithm that makes it possible to determine whether the container 1 has reached or exceeded a too great degradation threshold. Advantageously, this analysis is also carried out to provide information about the type of degradation, its severity and its location.

[0181] This analysis of the captured vibrations, and thus the captured vibration profile, is performed in comparison with a reference vibration profile.

[0182] The step of assessing wear and tear on the reusable box may further include, after analysis of the captured vibrations, recording and issuing of notifications regarding the deterioration of the captured vibration profile compared to the reference vibration profile of the container 1.

[0183] Therefore, in the object transport system according to the invention, reusable boxes are used which can themselves be easily inspected for their state of mechanical wear at any time, after an impact or trigger event or on demand.

[0184] Furthermore, if a critical defect is detected, preventative maintenance can be scheduled as soon as possible, remotely and on demand.

[0185] Furthermore, in variations of the embodiments of the invention detailed above, it may be provided to use types of vibration detectors other than accelerometers, i.e. any recorder of the transmission of mechanical vibrations.

[0186] Nevertheless, the accelerometer should include any type known to those skilled in the art, in particular piezoelectric accelerometers, piezoresistive accelerometers, fiber optic accelerometers, torque-balanced or force-balanced servo-controlled accelerometers, resonator accelerometers, capacitive micro-electromechanical systems accelerometers, known as MEMS.

[0187] The vibration detector may also be a velocimeter, which of course must include electrodynamic velocimeters, laser velocimeters, also known as vibrometers, and ultrasonic velocimeters.

[0188] The vibration detector may also be a displacement sensor, including all types of displacement sensors, in particular inductive displacement sensors, capacitive displacement sensors, optical displacement sensors (in particular by interferometry, laser triangulation, reflection or transmission), differential transformer displacement sensors, potentiometer or encoder type taut wire displacement sensors.

[0189] The techniques described above for creating a subsystem for assessing wear and tear on at least one physical element can be used in various types of fixed or mounted devices, for example, to construct a package, a parcel, or luggage such as a trunk or suitcase.

[0190] Moreover, the term physical element should be understood in a broad sense to encompass a mechanical part, mechanism or mechanical subassembly, or an electronic card.

Claims

1. 1. A system for transporting an object, comprising: a reusable container (1) intended to contain an object; at least one accelerometer (11) per container (1); and electronic processing means (2), a subsystem for assessing wear and tear on the reusable container (1), The subsystem comprises at least one vibration generator (3) intended to generate vibrations in at least one wall of at least one of the reusable containers (1), the generator (3) being configured to generate vibration sequences having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; Each container (1) integrates at least one of said vibration generators (3), for each vessel (1), said electronic processing means (2) are programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of said vessel (1); periodically starting the vibration generator (3), or automatically starting the vibration generator (3) after detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor of the container (1), or starting the vibration generator (3) upon a one-time request to activate the wear assessment subsystem; analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator (3) and captured by the accelerometer (11) to determine a captured vibration profile of the container (1); 10. The system according to claim 9, further comprising: a system configured to issue a notification regarding a deterioration of the captured vibration profile in comparison with the at least one reference vibration profile of the vessel (1).

2. 2. An object transport system according to claim 1, characterized in that the reusable containers (1) are reusable wrapping boxes each equipped with at least one accelerometer (11).

3. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the system comprises, for each container (1), a computer unit (12) which at least partly forms the electronic processing means (2).

4. 4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that the computer unit (12) is integrated into the container (1), preferably into one of the walls of the container (1).

5. 5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that the computer unit (12) is added on the container (1), the system comprising means for coupling the computer unit (12) to the container (1).

6. 6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises a remote server (4) and, for each vessel (1), means of communication (13) with said remote server (4), said remote server (4) being adapted to record notifications relating to a deterioration of the captured vibration profile.

7. 7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the generator (3) is configured to generate at least two vibration sequences with at least two different predetermined frequencies and / or at least two different predetermined amplitudes.

8. 8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the reference vibration profile of the vessel (1) or one of the reference vibration profiles of the vessel (1) corresponds to the vibration profile of the vessel (1) in a new state, or in a repaired state, or in a transient state determined by vibration analysis at a given moment.

9. 9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the reference vibration profile of the container (1) or one of the reference vibration profiles of the container (1) corresponds to a set of vibration profiles of the container previously analyzed by the electronic processing means (2).

10. 10. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises a display device (5) intended to be visible to a user (U) of the system, and the electronic processing means (2) are configured to display on the display device (5) notifications relating to a deterioration of the captured vibration profile.

11. A method for transporting objects using reusable containers (1) intended to contain objects and each equipped with an accelerometer (11), said reusable containers (1) each comprising: at least one vibration generator (3) intended to generate vibrations in at least one wall of at least one of said reusable containers (1); a subsystem for assessing wear and tear on the reusable container (1); and an electronic processing means (2) configured to periodically start the vibration generator (3), or to automatically start the vibration generator (3) after the detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor of the container (1), or to start the vibration generator (3) upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem, During the assessment of wear and tear on one of said containers, generating a vibration sequence having a predetermined frequency and amplitude on one wall of the reusable container; capturing the vibrations transmitted through the wall of the container with the accelerometer to determine a captured vibration profile; analyzing the captured vibration profile by comparing it with a reference vibration profile; 10. A method comprising a step of assessing wear of the reusable container (1), recording and issuing a notification regarding a deterioration of the captured vibration profile compared to the reference vibration profile of the container (1).

12. a subsystem for assessing wear of at least one physical element of the device, said subsystem being integrated into said device; said subsystem comprising at least one vibration sensor (11) connected to electronic processing means (2) and coupled to said physical element; said subsystem comprising at least one vibration generator (3) intended to generate vibrations transmitted to said physical element, said generator (3) being configured to generate vibration sequences having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; said electronic processing means (2) being programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of said physical element; periodically starting the vibration generator (3), or automatically starting the vibration generator (3) after detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor connected to the electronic processing means (2), or starting the vibration generator (3) upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem; analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator (3) and captured by the vibration sensor (11) to determine a captured vibration profile of the physical element; 11. A subsystem configured to issue a notification regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile as compared to the at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element.

13. 13. Wear assessment subsystem according to claim 12, characterized in that the generator (3) is configured to generate at least two vibration sequences with at least two different predetermined frequencies and / or at least two different predetermined amplitudes.

14. 14. A wear assessment subsystem according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the reference vibration profile of the physical element (1) or one of the reference vibration profiles of the physical element (1) corresponds to a vibration profile of the physical element (1) in a new state, or in a repaired state, or in a transient state determined by vibration analysis at a given moment.

15. 15. A wear assessment subsystem according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the reference vibration profile of the physical element (1) or one of the reference vibration profiles of the physical element (1) corresponds to a set of vibration profiles of physical elements previously analysed by the electronic processing means (2).

16. 16. A wear assessment subsystem according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the vibration generator is directly coupled to the physical element.

17. 17. A wear assessment subsystem according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the vibration sensor is directly coupled to the physical element.

18. 18. A wear assessment subsystem according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the vibration sensor is selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer, a velocimeter, a displacement sensor, and a resistive strain gauge.

19. A reusable container (1) intended to contain an object, characterized in that it forms a device comprising a physical element and a wear assessment subsystem according to any of claims 12 to 18.

20. 20. Reusable container (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that the one-time request to activate the wear assessment subsystem is issued when the container is in a reference state.

21. Reusable container (1) according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the physical element to which the vibration generator (3) is coupled is the wall of the container.

22. A reusable container (1) according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that it comprises a display device (5) intended to be visible to a user (U) of the container (1), and the electronic processing means (2) are configured to display on the display device (5) a notification relating to a deterioration of the captured vibration profile, the notification being issued by the wear assessment subsystem.

23. 19. A preventive maintenance system comprising a wear assessment subsystem according to any one of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that the system comprises a remote server (4) and, for each subsystem, means of communication (13) with the remote server (4), the remote server (4) being adapted to record notifications on deterioration of the vibration profile captured by the respective subsystem.

24. 24. The preventive maintenance system of claim 23, wherein each wear assessment subsystem is integrated into a container of any of claims 19 to 22 forming a population of reusable object-carrying containers.

25. 1. A method for assessing wear of at least one physical element constituting an apparatus, said apparatus integrating a wear assessment subsystem for implementing said method, said wear assessment subsystem comprising: at least one vibration sensor (11) connected to electronic processing means (2) and coupled to said physical element; at least one vibration generator (3) intended to generate vibrations that are transmitted to said physical element, The generator (3) is configured to generate a vibration sequence having at least one predetermined frequency and at least one predetermined amplitude; said electronic processing means (2) being programmed with at least one reference vibration profile of said physical element; The method comprises: periodically starting the vibration generator (3), or automatically starting the vibration generator (3) after detection of a predetermined event detected by at least one sensor connected to the electronic processing means (2), or starting the vibration generator (3) upon a one-off request to activate the wear assessment subsystem; analyzing the vibrations generated by the vibration generator (3) and captured by the vibration sensor (11) to determine a captured vibration profile of the physical element; issuing a notification regarding a degradation of the captured vibration profile as compared to the at least one reference vibration profile of the physical element.

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