Method and device for controlling the return logistics of a consumer packaging item

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling the return logistics of a consumer packaging item, comprising the steps of reading out an ID code associated with a consumer packaging item, reading and / or detecting information, modifying a first database entry in a database and executing a control command for performing a logistics process on the basis of the modified first database entry. The invention also relates to a system for controlling logistics processes related to a consumer packaging item.

Description

[0001] Method and device for controlling the return logistics of primary packaging

[0002] The invention relates to a method for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging with the method steps of reading an ID identifier associated with a primary packaging, reading and / or determining information, changing a first database entry in a database and executing a control command for executing a logistical process on the basis of the changed first database entry as well as a system for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging.

[0003] State of the art

[0004] Various deposit systems that implement similar procedures using deposit machines are already known. However, the demand for more precise and improved deposit systems has increased significantly to meet the increased demand and legal requirements.

[0005] For example, the German Packaging Act (VerpackG) implements the European Packaging Directive 94 / 62 / EC, which requires manufacturers and subsequent distributors of B2B packaging to ensure the return and recycling of the corresponding packaging waste. This now also applies to primary packaging. Furthermore, there are obligations to provide evidence of return and recycling. These obligations to provide evidence require a system that can assign appropriate information to the individual, sometimes disparate, packaging components. In addition, many primary packaging units consist of several separable individual components, which the system must distinguish.

[0006] To comply with these legal requirements, many countries have introduced deposit return systems that require consumers to pay a deposit on beverage and other containers, which can be returned to a deposit return system for a refund of the deposit amount, among other things to promote better recycling rates. The shape of the containers is typically scanned and / or weighed by a deposit return machine to identify the container and determine the deposit amount. When a consumer returns the container, the machine scans and / or weighs the deposit and dispenses the amount or a voucher.

[0007] However, conventional deposit return systems can be cumbersome and inefficient. For example, if a container is damaged, the machine may not be able to identify the container and issue a refund. Therefore, there is a need for a more efficient and accurate system for managing logistical processes related to primary packaging.

[0008] Task

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved method for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging.

[0010] It is also an object of the present invention to provide an improved system for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging.

[0011] The object is achieved by means of the method for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set out in the subclaims.

[0012] The method according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging comprises four method steps: In the first method step, an ID identifier associated with a primary packaging is read out.

[0013] Primary packaging (or primary packaging material) within the meaning of the invention is the packaging of a product before it is used freely and openly (i.e., unpacked or "unwrapped") by the end user. Primary packaging directly touches the contents, which leads to strict requirements, particularly in food and pharmaceutical law. The regulations govern the nature of such primary packaging and which ingredients (e.g., plasticizers in plastics) are permitted. Primary packaging serves to protect the product and ensure its quality; therefore, it must possess the advantageous properties required by the respective product (contents).

[0014] In one embodiment, the primary packaging is optionally a reusable container. A reusable container is a type of container that is designed and intended for multiple use cycles and is not disposed of or recycled after a single use. These containers can be made from various materials such as plastic, glass, metal, and / or other materials and are designed to withstand repeated use and cleaning. Reusable containers reduce waste and the need for new packaging materials, which can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and preserving natural habitats. Compared to single-use containers that must be purchased and disposed of repeatedly, reusable containers can save money over time. This is especially true for companies that use large quantities of reusable containers, such as those in the food and beverage industry.Reusable containers can be designed to better protect and preserve the quality of the products they contain, for example, by maintaining a constant temperature or preventing contamination. The benefits of using reusable containers also include reducing waste, conserving resources, and potentially lowering costs for businesses and consumers over time. By implementing a system for identifying and taking back reusable containers, companies can offer their customers incentives to return the containers for proper disposal or after use, thus reducing their environmental impact and complying with regulatory requirements.

[0015] Primary packaging is provided with a unique ID, which can optionally be applied to the primary packaging during its manufacture. This ID cannot be changed after the primary packaging has been manufactured, either by the manufacturer of the primary packaging, the operator of the process for managing the return logistics of a primary packaging, a manufacturer of the product to be packaged in the primary packaging, or an end user. The ID is embodied, for example, in an RFID chip, a QR code, a 2D code, a data matrix code, or a barcode. The ID is read using an ID scanner.

[0016] The second process step involves reading and / or retrieving information. Each ID is linked to information, with the ID and linked information stored in a database. Some of this information is optionally non-modifiable, e.g., type of primary packaging, material, shape and size of the primary packaging, and type of products to be packaged in the primary packaging. Some of the information is optionally modifiable, e.g., contents of the primary packaging, location of the primary packaging, loan status, and cleaning status. The reading and / or retrieval of information is optionally performed using an ID scanner connected to the database.

[0017] In the third step, a first database entry is modified. The first database entry is modified based on the information read and / or determined. The first database entry contains the information, with the modifiable information optionally being modified, for example, to include the contents of the primary packaging, the location of the primary packaging, the loan status, and the cleaning status.

[0018] In the fourth process step, a control command is executed to carry out a logistical process based on the modified first database entry. The logistical process includes, for example, transporting the primary packaging from a first to a second location and / or, optionally, performing a cleaning process.

[0019] The system and method according to the invention achieve digital process control, in particular, immediate and / or real-time checking of primary packaging stocks. Logistics is automated, as is inventory checking. This enables effective resource utilization and digital deposit clearing.

[0020] In a further development of the invention, reading the ID identifier involves scanning a barcode, a 2D code, a data matrix code, and / or a QR code, wherein the barcode and / or QR code is affixed to the primary packaging, or wherein the barcode and / or QR code is permanently affixed to the primary packaging. Reading and / or retrieving information is optionally performed using an ID identifier scanner connected to the database.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the invention, part of the read information is read from the database, wherein the read information is the information assigned to the ID identifier in the database, wherein the read information includes the loan status of the primary packaging, the type of primary packaging and / or the inventory of the type of primary packaging, the history of the primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging. The read information enables clear traceability of the primary packaging. Each primary packaging is clearly assigned, deposit theft is effectively prevented, and the information can be used to calculate life cycle assessments and market data. Furthermore, location-independent return of the primary packaging is possible, and the life cycle of the primary packaging is transparent.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, threshold values ​​are assigned to some of the information stored in the database. The threshold value can, for example, be the number of primary packaging of a certain type at a location, e.g. an allocation of primary packaging with a content. In a further aspect of the invention, the control command is executed when a threshold value is reached. If the threshold value of the number of primary packaging of a certain type at a location is reached, the control command is created and executed such that a logistical process is triggered such that a sufficient number of primary packaging is delivered to the location to exceed the threshold value. In a further embodiment of the invention, the logistical process comprises the sending of a message and / or a notification. The message and / or notification is sent in particular to the database on which the logistical process is stored in immediate or delayed mode.can be viewed in real time.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the message and / or notification is sent to multiple recipients and / or multiple messages and / or notifications are sent. This achieves global fraud protection as well as tracking of usage, cycles, and quantities at the location of the primary packaging. Furthermore, location determination and coordination of the primary packaging is possible.

[0024] In a further development of the invention, the message and / or notification comprises an order requisition and / or the transport of cleaned and / or uncleaned primary packaging. The order requisition optionally includes an order for newly manufactured primary packaging from a manufacturer. Cleaned primary packaging is transported from a cleaning facility to a central warehouse and / or a location, e.g., the allocation station, while uncleaned primary packaging is transported to a cleaning facility.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the message and / or notification includes an additional entry in the database. The database allows the logistics process to be viewed in real time. This makes it possible to determine the location and coordinate the primary packaging.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, the information determined is determined from a first automated examination of the position of the primary packaging. The scanning of the ID identifier using an ID identifier scanner can be automated, e.g. when the primary packaging is issued at the issuing station, when it is returned to the receiving station or in a means of transport during the execution of the logistical process. Real-time location determination and coordination of the primary packaging is therefore possible. The ID identifier scanner can be designed as a camera and / or barcode scanner. In a further aspect of the invention, the information determined is determined from a second automated examination of the condition of the primary packaging. The scanning of the ID identifier using an ID identifier scanner can be automated, e.g. when it is returned to the receiving station.The examination of the condition, in particular the cleaning status and any damage to the primary packaging, is recorded automatically and the relevant information is sent to the central database.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first database entry comprises the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging, wherein the entry in the database comprises data on the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging. In a further embodiment of the invention, the condition and / or inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the position of the primary packaging is updated in the database. Using the recorded information, the first database entry in the database is updated for each primary packaging, thereby achieving global fraud protection as well as tracking the uses, cycles and quantity at the location of the primary packaging. Furthermore, location determination and coordination of the primary packaging is possible.

[0028] The task is also solved by means of the system for controlling logistical processes of primary packaging.

[0029] The inventive system for controlling logistical processes for primary packaging comprises an issuing and / or receiving station with a first controller and a first ID scanner coupled to the first controller. The primary packaging can be issued to an end user at the issuing station and accepted by the end user again at the receiving station. Optionally, the issuing and / or receiving stations each comprise a first ID scanner coupled to a controller to preferably automatically capture the ID and associated information. The system also comprises a cleaning and / or inspection station with a second controller and a second ID scanner coupled to the second controller. At the cleaning and / or inspection station, the primary packaging is inspected for damage and its cleanliness status to preferably automatically capture the ID and associated information.By means of the second ID scanner and the second control, the ID and associated information can preferably be captured automatically.

[0030] The system further comprises a means of transport with a third controller and a third ID scanner coupled to the third controller, as well as a central controller with a database. A logistics process, in particular a delivery of primary packaging to different locations, can be carried out using the means of transport. The third ID scanner and the third controller can also preferably automatically capture the ID and associated information. A method for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging can be controlled using the central controller. The database contains the IDs of each individual primary packaging and associated information.

[0031] In a further development of the invention, the central controller and / or the first database is linked to the first, second, and third controllers. This link enables data exchange between the individual controllers.

[0032] In a further embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a warehouse with a fourth controller and a fourth ID scanner coupled to the fourth controller. Brand-new and / or cleaned primary packaging is stored centrally in the warehouse. Using the fourth ID scanner and the fourth controller, the ID and associated information can preferably be automatically captured. Optionally, the fourth controller is also linked to the central controller.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the invention, each individual primary packaging unit is traceable. Due to the arrangement of ID scanners, associated controls, and their connection to a central database, the location and condition of each primary packaging unit can be recorded in real time and, thanks to the storage of the information, also over time. This information can be used to calculate life cycle assessments and market data. Furthermore, the primary packaging can be returned regardless of location, making the primary packaging's life cycle transparent.

[0034] In a further embodiment of the invention, the issuing and / or receiving station and the cleaning and / or inspection station form a circuit for the primary packaging, wherein the circuit has a subsection where the primary packaging cannot be located. Within this subsection, the primary packaging is located at an end customer; therefore, the primary packaging cannot be located, but the stored information contains a corresponding entry.

[0035] Embodiments of the method and system according to the invention are shown schematically in simplified form in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description.

[0036] They show:

[0037] Fig. 1 : System and method according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging

[0038] Fig. 2: System and method according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging, logistics

[0039] Fig. 3: System and method according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging, cycle

[0040] Fig. 4: System and method according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging Fig. 5: Procedure for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging

[0041] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the system according to the invention for controlling logistical processes for primary packaging. The arrows indicate the data transfer between the individual components of the system. The system has the central database DB, which is connected to all other components of the system via data lines. The system also has an allocation station VGS for issuing primary packaging, a receiving station RGS for taking back primary packaging, and a payment system BS for paying for primary packaging and its contents. The allocation station VGS, payment system BS, and receiving station RGS can alternatively or additionally be arranged together in one device or at one location. In addition, the system has two cleaning systems RE, RI for cleaning the primary packaging. The cleaning system RI is arranged internally at the receiving station RGS, and the cleaning system RE is arranged externally and is, for example,carried out by a service provider.

[0042] To control the return logistics of a primary packaging, the ID associated with the primary packaging is read 10, information is read 20, and a first database entry in the database DB is changed 30. The first database entry contains the inventory of the primary packaging type and / or the condition of the primary packaging, whereby the database entry contains data on the inventory of the primary packaging type and / or the condition of the primary packaging. Part of the read 20 information includes the loan status of the primary packaging, the primary packaging type and / or the inventory of the primary packaging type, the history of the primary packaging, and / or the condition of the primary packaging.

[0043] This procedure takes place at the issuing station (VGS), the receiving station (RGS), the payment system (BS), and the dry cleaners (RE and RI). This digital recording enables real-time verification of primary packaging stocks at each location. Furthermore, tracking and real-time verification of the number of uses and usage cycles of each primary packaging is possible. Change 30 of the first database entry in the DB database includes, in addition to the primary packaging stock at each individual location and its number of uses and usage cycles, a status of "primary packaging borrowed" or "primary packaging not borrowed." In the "primary packaging borrowed" status, a deposit is placed on the primary packaging, which an end user (N) can redeem upon returning the primary packaging to the receiving station (RGS).By changing 30 the first database entry in the database DB, the status and / or the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the position of the primary packaging at a respective location of the system is updated in the database DB.

[0044] In the allocation station VGS, the receiving station RGS and the cleaning stations RE, RI, an additional process step is optionally carried out, namely the execution 40 of a control command for the execution of a logistical process T on the basis of the changed 30 first database entry.

[0045] The logistical process T is the transport of heavily contaminated primary packaging to an external cleaning facility RE at the receiving station RGS; the delivery of new and / or cleaned primary packaging to the issuing station VGS at the receiving station VGS; and the collection of cleaned primary packaging at the external cleaning facility RE. The control command for executing a logistical process T is only executed 40 when a threshold is reached. Thresholds are assigned to the information in the database DB for this purpose.

[0046] The logistical process T is then the degree of contamination of the primary packaging at the receiving station RGS: If the threshold value for the degree of contamination of the primary packaging is exceeded, the primary packaging is sent to the external cleaning facility RE when the logistical process T is executed. A further threshold value is the existing number of cleaned primary packaging items available at the allocation station VGS. If the set threshold value is reached, the execution of the logistical process T results in such a number of cleaned and / or newly produced primary packaging items being delivered to the allocation station VGS that the set threshold value is again exceeded. The aforementioned process steps 10, 20, 30, and 40 are summarized in a process 100 for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging (see Fig. 5).

[0047] Another embodiment of the system is shown in Fig. 2 for triggering a logistical process T for cleaning primary packaging. The system shown here has the database DB. The external cleaning RE and the internal cleaning RI are linked to one another by the logistical process T. At the receiving station RGS (see Fig. 1, 3), the primary packaging is checked for its degree of contamination. If the threshold value for the degree of contamination of the primary packaging is not reached, the primary packaging is fed to the internal cleaning RI. If the threshold value for the degree of contamination of the primary packaging is exceeded, process steps 10, 20, 30 and 40 (see Fig. 1) are carried out one after the other as process 100, the control command for executing a logistical process T then includes transporting the primary packaging to the external cleaning RE. Instead of internal cleaning, external cleaning can also be carried out.Instead of the internal cleaning RI, an external cleaning RE can also be carried out.

[0048] Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the system in which the system for controlling logistical processes for primary packaging has a circuit K. The system has an allocation station VGS for issuing primary packaging, a receiving station RGS for returning primary packaging, and a payment system BS for paying for primary packaging and its contents. The system also has an internal cleaning system RI for cleaning the primary packaging.

[0049] A user N receives primary packaging with contents at the issuing station VGS. Process 100 is carried out at the issuing station VGS. Logistics process T may include the delivery of cleaned primary packaging to the issuing station VGS as required. Data is also transferred to the payment system BS. User N pays for the primary packaging with contents at the payment system BS. Process steps 10, 20, and 30 are carried out. The primary packaging receives the status "borrowed." The primary packaging remains with user N until they return it to the receiving station RGS. Upon return, the system checks whether the primary packaging has the status "borrowed." Only then is the deposit amount paid out.

[0050] An inspection station is linked to the receiving station (RGS), where the returned primary packaging is inspected for its condition and, in particular, the degree of contamination. The primary packaging is cleaned in the internal cleaning facility (RI), process 100 is performed there, and the primary packaging is assigned the status "not checked out" and is ready for re-checkout.

[0051] In cycle K, every single piece of primary packaging is traceable, meaning its location and status are stored in the DB database and can be viewed in real time. Only in the KT subsection is the primary packaging not traceable.

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of the system. The system comprises the manufacturer HST of a primary packaging, which provides each primary packaging with a unique ID identifier (2D code, RFID, etc.). The method 100 is optionally carried out by the manufacturer HST; the quantity, type and the respective ID identifiers are recorded and stored in the database DB. The newly produced primary packaging is optionally delivered to a central warehouse L using the logistical process T; the warehouse has a fourth controller and an ID identifier scanner linked to it for recording the primary packaging. Optionally, newly produced primary packaging is delivered to a distributor V of the primary packaging using the logistical process T. The distributor V is, for example, the food trade (wholesale and retail), system catering (catering) or a producer of, for example, pre-packaged food.Distributor V has the issuing station VGS, the payment system BS, and the receiving station RGS. Primary packaging is issued to user N via the issuing station VGS.

[0053] The allocation station VGS has a first ID scanner and a first controller coupled thereto; the cleaning stations (RI, RE) each have a second ID scanner, each coupled to a second controller. The method 100 is carried out at the distributor V, and a logistics process T is started. The logistics process T comprises sending a message and / or a notification, wherein the message and / or notification comprises an order requisition and / or the transport of cleaned and / or uncleaned primary packaging. For this purpose, the distributor V is connected to the warehouse L and the cleaning stations RI, RE via data lines.

[0054] The logistics process T is carried out using a means of transport that has a third ID scanner and a third controller. Method 100 is carried out on the means of transport, thus allowing each primary packaging to be located in real time during the execution of the logistics process T.

[0055] The system and method according to the invention achieve digital control of processes, in particular real-time checking of primary packaging stocks in Warehouse L, in the dry cleaners RI and RE, and in Logistics T. Logistics T is automated, as is the inventory check. This enables effective resource utilization and digital deposit clearing.

[0056] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the method 100 according to the invention for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging. The method begins with the reading 10 of an ID identifier associated with the primary packaging. Each primary packaging has a unique ID identifier, by means of which each primary packaging can be uniquely identified. The ID identifier is already fixedly and permanently arranged on the primary packaging during production of the primary packaging, preferably as an RFID chip, 2D code, e.g., a QR code, or as a barcode. The reading 10 of the ID identifier takes place using an ID identifier scanner, which is used manually or automatically. This is followed by reading and / or determining 20 information, wherein the information is linked to the primary packaging whose ID identifier was read 10 in the previous method step.

[0057] Based on the information determined, a first database entry is changed. The change includes a change to the status of the primary packaging, e.g., rental status, cleaning status. In addition, the change includes, for example, a change to the number of primary packaging units present at one of the components of the system for controlling logistical processes for a primary packaging unit. Finally, a control command for executing a logistical process T is optionally executed based on the changed first database entry.

[0058] LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0059] DB database

[0060] L bearing

[0061] T Logistics / Transport Process

[0062] HST manufacturer of primary packaging

[0063] V Distributor / Customer / Manufacturer of the product

[0064] N end users

[0065] K circulation

[0066] Kt section of the cycle

[0067] BS payment station

[0068] RGS return station

[0069] VGS allocation station

[0070] RE cleaning external

[0071] RI cleaning internally

[0072] 10 Reading an ID identifier

[0073] 20 Reading / Determining Information

[0074] 30 Changing a first database entry

[0075] 40 Executing a control command

[0076] 100 procedures

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging with the process steps • Reading (10) an ID identifier associated with a primary packaging • Reading and / or ascertaining (20) information, • Changing (30) a first database entry in a database (DB), • Executing (40) a control command to execute a logistical process based on the changed first database entry.

2. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 1, characterized in that the reading (10) of the ID identifier includes the scanning of an RFID chip, barcode and / or 2D code, wherein the barcode and / or QR code is fixed to the primary packaging, or wherein the barcode and / or QR code is fixed indetachably to the primary packaging.

3. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that part of the read information is read from the database (DB), wherein the read information is the information assigned to the ID identifier in the database (DB), wherein the read information contains the loan status of the primary packaging, the type of primary packaging and / or the stock of the type of primary packaging. packaging, the history of the primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging.

4. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 3, characterized in that threshold values ​​are assigned to part of the information stored in the database (DB).

5. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 4, characterized in that the control command is executed when a threshold value is reached.

6. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the logistical process comprises sending a message and / or a notification.

7. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to claim 6, characterized in that the message and / or a notification is sent to several recipients and / or several messages and / or notifications are sent.

8. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the message and / or notification comprises an order request and / or the transport of cleaned and / or uncleaned primary packaging.

9. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the message and / or notification comprises a further entry in the database (DB).

10. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the information determined is determined from a first automated examination of the position of the primary packaging.

11. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the information determined is determined from a second automated examination of the condition of the primary packaging.

12. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first database entry comprises the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging, wherein the entry in the database (DB) comprises data on the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the condition of the primary packaging.

13. Method (100) for controlling the return logistics of a primary packaging according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the state and / or the inventory of the type of primary packaging and / or the position of the primary packaging is updated in the database (DB).

14. System for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging comprising • an allocation and / or receiving station (VGS, RGS) with a first controller, a first ID scanner coupled to the first controller, • a cleaning and / or inspection station (RI, RE) with a second controller and a second ID scanner coupled to the second controller, • a transport means (T) with a third controller and a third ID scanner coupled to the third controller, • a central control with a first database (DB).

15. System for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging according to claim 14, characterized in that the central controller and / or the first database (DB) is linked to the first, the second and the third controller.

16. System for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the system comprises a warehouse with a fourth controller and a fourth ID scanner coupled to the fourth controller.

17. System for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging according to one or more of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that each individual primary packaging is traceable.

18. System for controlling logistical processes of a primary packaging according to one or more of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the issuing and / or receiving station (VGS, RGS) and the cleaning and / or inspection station (RI, RE) form a circuit (K) for the primary packaging (PV), wherein the circuit (K) has a section (Kt) on which the primary packaging (PV) cannot be located.

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