System for the intralogistic distribution of goods, and method for transporting goods in a system for the intralogistic distribution of goods

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (20) for the intralogistic distribution of goods (24), in particular in a closed space, comprising at least one loading station (30), at least one transport container (25) for receiving at least one good (24), wherein the at least one transport container (25) can be filled with at least one good (24) in the at least one loading station (30), at least one transport container receiving device (32), wherein the at least one transport container receiving device (32) is designed to receive the at least one transport container (25) in a suspended manner, at least one flight-capable transport means (41, 42), having at least one receiving device (45), and at least one control device (51) which is designed to control the flight behaviour of the at least one flight-capable transport means (41, 42). The receiving device (45) of the at least one flight-capable transport means (41, 42) is designed to receive the at least one suspended transport container (25) from the at least one transport container receiving device (32).

Description

[0001] P400179WO_20251229 Page 1 | 26 v1.0

[0002] System for the intralogistics distribution of goods and methods for transporting goods in a system for the intralogistics distribution of goods

[0003] The present invention relates to a system for the intralogistic distribution of goods according to the preamble of claim 1, and a method for transporting goods in a system for the intralogistic distribution of goods according to claim 17.

[0004] Technological background

[0005] An intralogistics system is a system in which logistical goods movements are handled within a building structure. Common intralogistics systems include storage racks, conveyor systems, sorting systems, order picking systems, and packaging systems. These systems are largely fixed in place within the building structure. In addition, mobile transport systems, such as autonomously controlled vehicles or drones, are used to handle at least parts of the intralogistics goods handling process.

[0006] WO 2017 / 152201 A1 discloses a system for picking products into an order container assigned to a picking order, comprising a storage rack located in a building for storing the products and product handling equipment for retrieving the products to a transfer point located in or on the storage rack. The system includes a control computer for controlling at least one flying object, in particular a drone, the flying object being configured to pick the retrieved product into the order container. The transfer point includes transfer equipment for handing over the retrieved product to enable it to be picked up by the lifting devices of the flying object.

[0007] WO 2024 / 151447 A2 discloses a combined payload recovery and package handling device with a base, an automatic P400179WO_20251229 mounted on the base Page 2 | 26 v1.0

[0008] A loading unit comprising a payload holder for receiving a payload for retrieval by a drone, a channel connected to the payload holder for guiding a payload coupling device to the payload holder, and a package container housing with package containers for receiving a package, each package container having a locking device for securing a package within the container. The locking device is configured to unlock upon receipt of an initial access code to allow access to the interior of the package container so that a package can be inserted into or removed from the package container.

[0009] German patent DE 102021109957 A1 discloses an intralogistics system with at least one drone for transporting goods within the system. It is proposed that the intralogistics system includes a conveyor system with at least one docking device for docking and undocking the drone, the conveyor system being designed to transport the drone along a conveyor track after docking until undocking.

[0010] A disadvantage of the current state of the art is that existing intralogistics systems using drones as transport vehicles require large areas with significant building heights to pick or transport a relatively small number of goods. The volume of goods moved is relatively small, making these systems very inefficient.

[0011] Description of the invention

[0012] One object of the invention is to avoid at least one disadvantage of the prior art. An improved system for the intralogistics distribution of goods is to be created, with which, in particular, improved spatial utilization of a structure above the system can be achieved, thus enabling improved, space-saving intralogistics handling of goods. An improved method for the intralogistics distribution of goods is to be created, with which improved spatial utilization of a structure above the system can be achieved, thus enabling improved, space-saving intralogistics handling of goods. P400179WO_20251229 Page 3 | 26 v1.0

[0013] This problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous developments are set out in the figures and in the dependent patent claims.

[0014] An inventive system for the intralogistics distribution of goods comprises at least one loading station, at least one transport container for receiving at least one good, wherein the at least one transport container can be filled with at least one good in the at least one loading station, at least one transport container receiving device, wherein the at least one transport container receiving device is configured to receive the at least one transport container in a suspended position, at least one airworthy transport means with at least one receiving device, and at least one control device configured to control the flight behavior of the at least one airworthy transport means. The at least one receiving device of the at least one airworthy transport means is configured to receive the at least one suspended transport container from the at least one transport container receiving device.

[0015] The picking up and transport of suspended containers by an airborne transport vehicle creates new, cost-effective possibilities in the intralogistics distribution of goods. A further advantage is the high scalability and modularity of the system according to the invention. Existing systems are often rigid, permanently installed, and only scalable to a limited extent. Such systems are particularly advantageous, for example, for sorting goods. With the system according to the invention, improved spatial utilization of the system's structure can be achieved, and improved intralogistics handling of goods is possible in a space-saving manner. This makes it possible to implement a complex and extensive intralogistics system in a structure with a smaller footprint. Conventional conveyor systems with fixed transport routes within the structure can be dispensed with. This leads to a large number of goods being transported, sorted, and / or processed simultaneously.can be picked and packed, thus significantly increasing the system's efficiency. A structure can include a warehouse, a house, or other buildings with rooms, and in this context also includes tunnel systems or rooms located underground or in mountain tunnels. P400179WO_20251229 Page 4 | 26 v1.0.

[0016] At least one of the flying means of transport can be a flying drone. Flying drones can now be controlled with centimeter-level accuracy in flight, making them ready for use in intralogistics systems to perform complex flight maneuvers. The flying means of transport includes at least a propulsion system and a communication unit to exchange data with at least one control unit.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one transport container has a coupling unit that interacts with the receiving device of the at least one airworthy transport means. The at least one receiving device can be connected to a coupling unit of the suspended transport container in such a way that the suspended transport container can be separated from the transport container receiving device.

[0018] Preferably, the receiving device of the at least one airworthy transport means comprises a receiving coupling which includes at least one magnetic device. The magnetic device may comprise a permanent magnet or an activatable or switchable electromagnet. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving coupling may comprise a hook, bolt, pin, or eyelet. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving coupling may comprise a gripping arm that can be moved from a gripping position to a release position. In the gripping position, the coupling unit of the at least one transport container is physically and firmly connected to the at least one gripping arm. The aforementioned receiving coupling is designed to physically connect to the coupling unit at least temporarily in order to transport the at least one transport container in a suspended position.

[0019] In particular, at least one transport container is a hanging bag or sack. Bags or sacks can be easily and space-savingly positioned by hanging and at least temporarily connected to the transport container mounting device, making them particularly well-suited for holding goods. The goods can be stored in the bag or sack in a space-saving manner and transported using the airworthy transport vehicle. Alternatively, at least one transport container has rigid sections. This rigidity can be important for the transport of the goods. Thus, the bag or sack can be either rigid or flexible. P400179WO_20251229 Page 5 | 26 v1.0

[0020] Goods can be, for example, an element or item of an existing or future order for goods to be withdrawn, or an item intended for storage in a warehouse. Goods can also include packages, letters, or similar items in a distribution center.

[0021] At least one transport container can be manually placed onto the transport container receiving device by a user or, for example, an automated system such as a robot. This allows the receiving device to be freely and flexibly equipped with at least one transport container. In particular, multiple transport containers are available, which can be manually placed onto the receiving device by a user or, for example, an automated system such as a robot. Alternatively or additionally, at least one transport container can be placed onto the receiving device by at least one flying transport vehicle. This is particularly advantageous when empty transport containers are being rearranged.

[0022] In particular, the system is located in a self-contained environment. This isolates the system and at least one airworthy transport vehicle from the surroundings, thus limiting the flight behavior of the at least one airworthy transport vehicle and making it easier to control. This results in an autonomous system that is cost-effective.

[0023] Preferably, the at least one transport container receiving device comprises at least one strand from which the at least one transport container can be suspended. For this purpose, the at least one transport container can have a suspension bracket, in particular a hook-shaped suspension bracket. In the present context, the at least one strand is a unit extending at least in one spatial direction, which is configured to suspend the at least one transport container. For example, the strand is a rope, a wire rope or plastic rope, a strut, a rod or a beam, or the like. In particular, the at least one transport container is arranged in a suspended position. For example, the at least one strand is arranged on a frame or on a wall of the structure, so that the at least one transport container can be arranged in a suspended position on the at least one strand. A suspended positioning orArrangement allows for a deviation from the subsurface. P400179WO_20251229 Page 6 | 26 v1.0.

[0024] Contactless holding of the at least one transport container on the transport container receiving device or the at least one stranded material. The at least one transport container is thus spaced away from the ground. Preferably, the at least one transport container can be positioned freely suspended. In this case, the at least one transport container is only in contact with the stranded material or the transport container receiving device at one point of contact. This significantly simplifies the connection of the coupling unit of the at least one transport container to the receiving device of the at least one airworthy transport means. In particular, the at least one transport container can be connected to the receiving device of the at least one airworthy transport means while freely suspended.This significantly simplifies the separation of at least one transport container from the receiving device of at least one airworthy means of transport, as well as the picking up of at least one transport container with the receiving device of at least one airworthy means of transport.

[0025] Preferably, the at least one stranded structure has multiple positions along its length, each with at least one identification marker. This uniquely determines the position of the at least one transport container on the at least one stranded structure. The at least one transport container is logically linked to one of the identification markers, for example, so that the at least one airborne transport vehicle can locate the at least one transport container. For example, the at least one airborne transport vehicle can store data related to the identification marker.

[0026] Preferably, the at least one transport container receiving device comprises at least one conveying device with at least one conveying unit configured to move the at least one transport container from a first position to at least one further position along the at least one strand. This allows the at least one transport container to be released suspended at one position along the at least one strand and picked up again at another position from the suspended arrangement, for example, by the at least one airborne transport means. This makes the at least one transport container movable within the system even without an airborne transport means. For example, the at least one conveying unit can be a conveyor chain connected to a drive unit that drives the movable conveyor chain at least along at least one spatial direction. P400179WO_20251229 Page 7 | 26 v1.0

[0027] Preferably, the at least one airborne transport means has a recognition unit for detecting at least one transport container. This enables the secure pickup of the at least one transport container. In particular, this ensures that the correct transport container is picked up by the airborne transport means. The recognition unit can comprise at least one sensor. In an advantageous embodiment, the recognition unit can be a camera that optically detects the at least one transport container, so that the at least one pickup device and the coupling unit of the at least one transport container can be connected precisely and reproducibly. In particular, a marking unit is arranged in the area of ​​the coupling unit. Preferably, the recognition unit is configured to detect the marking unit.For example, the marking unit has a QR code or barcode containing data that is uniquely assigned to at least one transport container. The recognition unit is designed to read the QR code or barcode and process the data to prevent the mix-up of transport containers.

[0028] The receiving device includes, in particular, an interface for exchanging data between the at least one transport container and the at least one airworthy means of transport. When the at least one transport container is connected to the airworthy means of transport, data can be transferred directly from the at least one transport container to the airworthy means of transport via the interface. This data can be checked directly in the airworthy means of transport or transferred to the at least one control unit so that the data can be checked there.

[0029] Preferably, the at least one airworthy means of transport has a power supply to power at least one transport container. The power supply is thus not only available to power the propulsion system of the airworthy means of transport, but also supplies power to the at least one transport container. The at least one transport container has a control mechanism that can be controlled using this power. For example, the control mechanism includes an actuator or a switch to operate an opening mechanism on the at least one transport container. P400179WO_20251229 Page 8 | 26 v1.0

[0030] Preferably, at least one buffer station is provided, wherein the buffer station includes at least one suspended structure on which the transport container can be positioned, and in particular, is suspended. The buffer station thus serves as an interim storage location for the transport container. The transport container can be temporarily parked on the suspended structure until it is picked up again by an airborne transport vehicle. The buffer station can, for example, serve to consolidate goods from existing or future orders for a goods withdrawal. Simultaneously, the buffer station can serve to buffer packages, letters, or similar items in a distribution center.During storage or temporary storage at the buffer station, the connection between the at least one transport container and the at least one air-capable transport means is logically and physically severed, and the at least one transport container is left on the at least one strand. In particular, the at least one buffer station includes not only a first strand but also a second strand. The first strand and the second strand can be spaced vertically or horizontally apart in such a way that a first transport container suspended from the first strand and a second transport container suspended from the second strand do not touch each other.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one strand of material in the buffer station has multiple positions along its length, each with at least one identification marker. This uniquely determines the position of the at least one transport container on the at least one strand. The at least one transport container is logically linked to one of the identification markers, for example, so that the at least one airborne transport vehicle can locate the at least one transport container. For example, the at least one airborne transport vehicle can store data related to the identification marker.

[0032] Preferably, the at least one buffer station includes a distribution device. The distribution device is configured to distribute the at least one transport container to the at least one strand or to the next strand. The distribution device thus enables the redistribution of the transport containers within the buffer station without the need for a flying transport vehicle. The distribution device can include a robotic unit. The robotic unit is configured to move at least one transport container from the first P400179WO_20251229 Page 9 | 26 v1.0

[0033] to transfer stranded material to the other stranded material. This allows a complex redistribution to take place directly in the buffer station.

[0034] Preferably, at least one control device is arranged in at least one airworthy means of transport. This allows the airworthy means of transport to be controlled autonomously and to move autonomously within the structure.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, a system control unit is available. This system control unit can be connected to at least one control unit for data exchange and has a communication interface. For example, order data for a specific transport container can be transmitted from the system control unit to the at least one control unit in the at least one airworthy transport vehicle. The at least one airworthy transport vehicle autonomously determines the flight route to the specific transport container. In particular, the distribution unit is connected to the system control unit for data exchange. The system control unit can thus transmit order data and other data to the distribution unit.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the system control unit is designed to coordinate order data for the multiple airborne transport vehicles. In particular, the individual airborne transport vehicles can be controlled in such a way that, depending on the order data, the individual transport containers are distributed to predetermined positions in the buffer station. This allows for an intelligent allocation of the transport containers without, for example, the multiple airborne transport vehicles interfering with each other during transport or in their flight behavior. At the same time, redundancy and dynamic flexibility in the usability of the goods within the transport vehicles are possible.

[0037] Preferably, several airworthy means of transport are present, with at least one control unit designed to control the flight behavior of these multiple airworthy means of transport. This control unit thus acts as a central control point and communicates directly with the multiple airworthy means of transport.

[0038] In particular, several airworthy means of transport have at least one control device. It is advantageous if the control devices of the P400179WO_20251229 page 10 | 26

[0039] V1.0

[0040] Several airborne means of transport can be connected to each other for the exchange of data. This enables communication between multiple airborne means of transport.

[0041] Preferably, a flight management system is present, which is connected to at least one control unit for data exchange. A flight management system comprises a central control unit and a processing unit with a storage unit. These contain all data of the airborne transport vehicles in the system and can exchange this data with the airborne transport vehicles in the system via a communication interface. Furthermore, the flight management system can store data from the loading station, the buffer station, and a terminal station. Alternatively or additionally, the flight management system is connected to the system control unit for data exchange.

[0042] An inventive method for transporting goods in a system for the intralogistics distribution of goods comprises at least one

[0043] a. Providing at least one transport container on at least one transport container receiving device, wherein the at least one transport container is arranged suspended on the at least one transport container receiving device;

[0044] b. Picking up the at least one transport container with at least one airworthy means of transport, wherein the at least one airworthy means of transport has at least one picking device;

[0045] c. Exchange of data between the at least one airworthy means of transport and the at least one transport container.

[0046] The picking up and transport of suspended transport containers by an air-capable transport vehicle enables new, cost-effective possibilities in the intralogistics distribution of goods. With the system according to the invention, improved spatial utilization of a structure above the system can be achieved, and improved intralogistics handling of goods is possible in a space-saving manner. This allows for a complex and extensive intralogistics system on a structure with a P400179WO_20251229 Page 11 | 26 v1.0

[0047] A smaller footprint is possible. In particular, the system described here is one of those systems.

[0048] Preferably, the at least one transport container is transported to a buffer station using the airborne means of transport and temporarily stored there. The buffer station thus serves as temporary storage for the at least one transport container. During storage or temporary storage in the buffer station, the connection between the at least one transport container and the at least one airborne means of transport is logically and physically severed.

[0049] Preferably, at least one transport container is transported from a loading station to the buffer station using an airborne means of transport. The buffer station can, for example, serve to consolidate goods from existing or future orders for a goods withdrawal, which were loaded into the at least one transport container at the loading station. Simultaneously, the buffer station can serve to buffer packages, letters, or similar items in a distribution center.

[0050] Preferably, at least one transport container is transported from the loading station to a final destination using at least one air-capable transport vehicle. This ensures direct and rapid transport of the goods to the final destination.

[0051] Advantageously, at least one transport container is moved from the buffer station to the final destination using at least one air-capable transport vehicle. This allows the orders consolidated in the buffer station to be transported directly and quickly to a final destination, where they can be packaged immediately.

[0052] Advantageously, at least one transport container is transferred from one position to another within the buffer station using at least one air-capable transport vehicle. This at least one air-capable transport vehicle can thus be used to facilitate the relocation or rearrangement of goods within the buffer station.

[0053] Advantageously, at least one transport container is unloaded, so that the goods are physically separated from the container. This makes the container easy to empty and reuse. This can be done automatically at the final destination. A sensor device can be used for this purpose. P400179WO_20251229 Page 12 | 26 v1.0

[0054] The final destination must recognize at least one transport container and trigger the activation of an opening mechanism.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one transport container can be handed over as a whole. This severs the connection between the at least one airworthy means of transport and the at least one transport container.

[0056] Preferably, the recognition unit detects a storage unit, such as a goods chute, at the end station on at least one airworthy transport device and releases the at least one transport container above this storage unit, so that the at least one transport container or the goods contained therein can be transported away via the storage unit. In particular, the recognition unit transmits data to the at least one control unit, which then activates an actuator or a switch to operate an opening mechanism on the at least one transport container, so that the goods are transferred to the storage unit. This enables fully automated delivery of the goods.

[0057] A transport bag according to the invention has a suspension device for hanging the transport bag on a continuous material or a conveyor chain and comprises at least one coupling unit. The coupling unit is designed to establish at least a temporary physical connection with the receiving device of the at least one airborne transport means, so that the transport bag can be transported with the at least one airborne transport means. The suspension device can be a hook, so that the transport bag can be suspended on a continuous material, such as a rope. Furthermore, the transport bag can include the features of the at least one transport container, as described herein.

[0058] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the drawings.

[0059] The list of reference numerals, like the technical content of the patent claims and figures, forms part of the disclosure. The figures are described coherently and comprehensively. Identical reference numerals denote identical components. P400179WO_20251229 Page 13 | 26

[0060] V1.0

[0061] Reference symbols with different indices indicate functionally identical or similar components.

[0062] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments in the following figures.

[0063] Positional references, such as "top", "bottom", "right" or "left", refer to the corresponding representations and are not to be understood as restrictive.

[0064] Although the invention is illustrated and described in detail by means of the figures and the accompanying description, this illustration and detailed description are to be understood as illustrative and exemplary and not as limiting the invention. It is understood that those skilled in the art may make modifications and adaptations without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the invention also includes embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above with regard to various aspects and / or embodiments.

[0065] The invention also includes individual features shown in the figures, even if they are shown there in conjunction with other features and / or are not mentioned above. Furthermore, the term "comprises" and derivatives thereof does not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and derivatives thereof does not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims can be fulfilled by a single unit. The terms "essentially," "approximately," "about," and the like, in conjunction with a property or value, also define precisely that property or value. All reference numerals in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0066] Character description

[0067] The figures are described in a coherent and comprehensive manner. Identical reference symbols indicate identical components. (See P400179WO_20251229, page 14 of 26)

[0068] V1.0

[0069] Fig. 1: a first embodiment of the system according to the invention for the intralogistics distribution of goods in a schematic perspective,

[0070] Fig. 2: a loading station of the system according to Fig. 1 in a schematic perspective,

[0071] Fig. 3: the loading station of the system according to Fig. 2 in a schematic side view,

[0072] Fig. 4: a flight-capable transport vehicle of the system according to Fig. 1 in a schematic perspective,

[0073] Fig. 5: the airworthy means of transport according to Fig. 4 in a schematic side view,

[0074] Fig. 6: a buffer station of the system according to Fig. 1 in a schematic perspective,

[0075] Fig. 7: the buffer station of the system according to Fig. 6 in a schematic top view,

[0076] Fig. 8: the buffer station of the system according to Fig. 6 in a schematic side view,

[0077] Fig. 9: a terminal station of the system according to Fig. 1 in a schematic perspective, and

[0078] Fig. 10: the end station of the system according to Fig. 9 in a schematic side view.

[0079] Implementation of the invention

[0080] Figure 1 shows a system 20 for the intralogistics distribution of goods with at least one loading station 30 and several transport containers 25 for receiving at least one good 24, wherein the transport containers 25 can be filled with at least one good 24 in the at least one loading station 30. The loading station 30 has a transport container receiving device 32, wherein the P400179WO_20251229 Page 15 | 26 v1.0

[0081] The transport container receiving device 32 is configured to receive the transport containers 25 suspended from the system. The system 20 comprises several airborne transport means 41, 42, each with a receiving device 45, and a control device 51, which is configured to control the flight behavior of the airborne transport means 41, 42. The respective receiving device 45 of the airborne transport means 41, 42 is configured to receive one of the suspended transport containers 25 from the transport container receiving device 32. The system has at least one buffer station 60, a flight management device 50, and at least one end station 70. The system 20 is arranged in a superstructure 22.

[0082] Figures 2 and 3 show one of the loading stations 30 of the system 20. The transport container receiving device 32 of the loading station 30 is designed as a continuous length 33, from which the several transport containers 25 are suspended by means of hook-shaped hanging brackets 26a. The continuous length 33 shown is a metal bar that extends through the loading station 30. The goods 24 are delivered and transferred to the loading station 30, so that they ultimately end up in the transport containers 25, which are arranged one after the other suspended from the continuous length 33. This suspended positioning allows the transport containers 25 to be held on the continuous length 33 without contact with the ground. More precisely, the transport containers 25 are positioned freely suspended from the continuous length 33. The transport containers 25 are only in contact with the continuous length 33 at one point.The transport containers 25 can be manually hung on the transport container receiving device 32 by a user or, for example, by an automated device such as a robot or by one of the several flying transport means 41, 42.

[0083] The transport container receiving device 30 has a conveying device 34 with at least one conveying unit 35, which is configured to move the transport containers 25 from a first position to at least one further position along the at least one strand 33. This allows the respective transport containers 25 to be released suspended from one position of the strand 33 and picked up again from the suspended arrangement at another position, for example, by the airborne transport means 41, 42. Thus, the transport container 25 can be moved within the system 20 even without an airborne transport means 41, 42. For example, the at least one conveying unit 35 can be a conveyor chain equipped with a P400179WO_20251229 Page 16 | 26 v1.0

[0084] The drive is connected and drives the movable conveyor chain at least along one spatial direction.

[0085] The stranded section 33 can have multiple positions along its length, each with at least one identification marker. This uniquely determines the position of the at least one transport container on the stranded section. The at least one transport container is logically linked to one of the identification markers, enabling the at least one airborne transport vehicle to locate it. For example, the at least one airborne transport vehicle can store data related to the identification marker.

[0086] Figures 4 and 5 show the airworthy transport means 41, 42, which are airworthy drones. The airworthy transport means 41, 42 comprise at least one propulsion unit 43 and a communication unit 44 for exchanging data with the at least one control unit 51. The at least one receiving unit 45 can be connected to a coupling unit 26 of the suspended transport container 25 such that the suspended transport container 25 can be separated from the transport container receiving unit 32. The transport containers 25 can be connected to the receiving unit 45 of the airworthy transport means 41, 42 in a free-hanging position.

[0087] The airborne transport means 41, 42 each have a detection unit 46 for detecting at least the transport container 25. The detection unit 46 can include at least one sensor. In this embodiment, the detection unit 46 is a camera 47 that optically detects the transport container 25, so that the at least one recording device 45 and the coupling unit 26 of the transport container 25 can be connected precisely and reproducibly. A marking unit 27 is arranged in the area of ​​the coupling unit 26. The detection unit 46 is configured to detect the marking unit 27. The detection unit 46 is configured to read the marking unit 27 and process the data.

[0088] The receiving device 42 has an interface 48 for exchanging data between the transport container 25 and the airborne transport vehicle 41, 42. When the transport container 25 is connected to the airborne transport vehicle 41, 42, data can be transmitted directly from the transport container 25 to the airborne transport vehicle via interface 48.

[0089] Transport means 41, 42. This data can be checked directly in the airworthy transport means 41, 42, or transferred to the control unit 51 so that the data can be checked there.

[0090] The airborne transport means 41, 42 has a power supply 49 to provide energy to at least the transport container 25. The power supply 49 is thus not only available to power the propulsion unit 43 of the airborne transport means 41, 42, but also supplies energy to the transport container 25. The transport container 25 has a control mechanism 28 that can be controlled using this energy. For example, the control mechanism 28 includes an actuator or a switch to operate an opening mechanism 29 on the transport container 25, so that the cargo 24 can leave the transport container 25.

[0091] In this embodiment, the suspended transport container 25 is a bag which has a coupling unit 26. Bags can be easily and space-savingly positioned suspended and connected, at least temporarily, to the transport container receiving device 32 and are particularly well suited for holding goods 24. The goods 24 can be stored in the bag in a space-saving manner and transported with the air-capable transport means 41, 42.

[0092] Figures 6 to 8 show at least one buffer station 60, wherein the buffer station 60 has several strands 63 from which transport containers 25 are suspended by means of hook-shaped suspension brackets 26a and are arranged freely suspended. These strands 63 are ropes or rods which are tensioned in a frame 61 of the buffer station 60. The several strands 63 are spaced horizontally and vertically apart from one another so that the several transport containers 25 can be positioned freely suspended in the frame 61. The first strand 63 and the next strand 64 are spaced vertically and horizontally apart from one another such that a first transport container 25, which is positioned suspended from the first strand 63, and a next transport container 25, which is positioned suspended from the next strand 64, do not overlap.Furthermore, the air-capable transport means 41, 42 can also move or fly freely between individual transport containers 25 and adjacent stranded goods 63 in order to pick up or position individual transport containers 25 from, for example, a stranded goods 63 arranged in frame 61. The buffer station 60 serves as an intermediate storage area. P400179WO_20251229 Page 18 | 26 v1.0.

[0093] For the transport containers 25. The transport containers 25 can be temporarily stored on a predefined conveyor belt 63 until they are picked up again by an airborne transport vehicle 41, 42. The buffer station 60 can, for example, be used to consolidate goods from existing or future orders for a goods withdrawal. At the same time, the buffer station 60 can be used to buffer packages, letters, or similar items in a distribution center. During storage or temporary storage at the buffer station 60, the connection between a transport container 25 and the airborne transport vehicle 41, 42 is logically and physically severed, and the transport container 25 is left on the conveyor belt 63.

[0094] Several of the stranded goods 63 in the buffer station 60 can have multiple positions along their length, each of which has at least one identification marker. This uniquely determines the position of the at least one transport container 25 on the at least one stranded goods. The at least one transport container is logically linked to one of the identification markers, for example, so that the at least one airborne transport vehicle 41, 42 can locate the at least one transport container 25. For example, the at least one airborne transport vehicle 41, 42 can store data about the identification marker.

[0095] The buffer station 60 has a distribution device 65. The distribution device 65 is designed to distribute the transport containers 25 at and between the stranded goods 63. The distribution device 65 thus enables the redistribution of the transport containers 25 within the buffer station 60 without the need for a flying transport vehicle 41, 42. The distribution device 65 can include a robot unit 66. The robot unit 66 is designed to transfer at least one transport container 25 from the first stranded goods 63 to the next stranded goods 64.

[0096] The multiple airborne transport vehicles 41, 42 each have a control unit 51. A system control unit 53 is present. This system control unit 53 can be connected to the control units 51 for data exchange. For example, order data for a specific transport container 25 can be transmitted directly from the system control unit 53 to the control unit 51 of one of the airborne transport vehicles 41, 42. The airborne transport vehicle 41, 42 autonomously finds the flight route to the specific transport container 25. Furthermore, the distribution unit 65 with the system control unit 53 is used for the exchange of data.

[0097] Data connected. The system control unit 53 can thus transmit order data and other data to the distribution unit 65.

[0098] Figures 9 and 10 show one of the terminal stations 70 of the system 20. The terminal station 70 has a storage unit 71. The transport containers 25 are positioned above the storage unit 71 using the airborne transport means 41, 42. The detection unit 46 of the airborne transport means 41, 42 detects the storage unit 71, and the transport container 25 is then emptied. The detection unit 46 transmits data to the control unit 51, which then activates an actuator or a switch to operate an opening mechanism 29 on the transport container 25, so that the goods 24 are transferred to the storage unit 71.

[0099] The system control unit 53 is arranged in a flight management unit 50, which is connected to the control units 51 and the system controller 53 for data exchange – see Figure 1. This flight management unit 50 comprises the central system control unit 53 and a computing unit 54 including a storage unit 55. These contain all data of the airborne means of transport 41, 42 in system 20 and can exchange this data with the airborne means of transport 41, 42 in system 20 via a communication interface 56. Furthermore, the flight management unit 50 can contain data from the loading station 30, the buffer station 60, and a terminal station 70.

[0100] For a description of the method for transporting goods 24 in a system 20 for the intralogistics distribution of goods, reference is made to Figures 1 to 10. The method comprises at least one

[0101] a. Providing several transport containers 25 on a transport container receiving device 32, wherein the transport containers 25 are arranged suspended on the transport container receiving device 32;

[0102] b. Picking up a transport container 25 with an airworthy transport means 41, wherein the airworthy transport means 41 has at least one picking device 45; P400179WO_20251229 Page 20 | 26 v1.0

[0103] c. Exchange of data between the airworthy means of transport 25 and the transport container 25.

[0104] The transport container 25 is then transported to a buffer station 60 using the airborne transport vehicle 41 and temporarily stored there. During storage or temporary storage at the buffer station 60, the connection between the transport container 25 and the airborne transport vehicle 41 is logically and physically severed. The airborne transport vehicle 41 then flies to another transport container 25 at the loading station 30 or to the buffer station 60.

[0105] Afterwards or simultaneously, another transport container 25 is transported from the loading station 30 to a final station 70 using an air-capable transport vehicle 42.

[0106] Afterwards or simultaneously, a transport container 25 is transported from the buffer station 60 to the final station 70 using an air-capable transport vehicle 41, 42.

[0107] Afterwards, or simultaneously, a transport container 25 is transferred from a first position to another position in the buffer station 60 using an air-capable transport vehicle 41, 42. P400179WO_20251229 Page 21 | 26 v1.0

[0108] Reference symbol list

[0109] 20 System

[0110] 22 Development

[0111] 24 Good

[0112] 25 transport containers

[0113] 26 coupling unit

[0114] 26a Hanging view

[0115] 27 marking units

[0116] 28 Control mechanism

[0117] 29 Opening mechanism

[0118] 30 loading stations

[0119] 32 Transport container receiving device

[0120] 33 stranded material

[0121] 34 Funding facility

[0122] 35 conveying units

[0123] 41 airworthy means of transport

[0124] 42 airworthy means of transport

[0125] 43 Drive unit

[0126] 44 Communication unit

[0127] 45 Reception facility

[0128] 46 Recognition unit

[0129] 47 Camera

[0130] 48 interface

[0131] 49 Energy supply

[0132] 50 Flight Management Equipment

[0133] 51 control devices

[0134] 53 System control unit

[0135] 54 computing units

[0136] 55 storage unit

[0137] 56 Communication interface

[0138] 60 Buffer station

[0139] 61 frames out of 60

[0140] 63 strand goods

[0141] 64 strand goods

[0142] 65 Distribution facility

[0143] 66 robot units

[0144] 70 End station

[0145] 71 Storage unit

Claims

P400179WO_20251229 Page 22 | 26 v1.0 Patent claims 1. System (20) for the intralogistics distribution of goods (24), in particular in an enclosed space, comprising at least one loading station (30), at least one transport container (25) for receiving at least one good (24), wherein the at least one transport container (25) can be filled with at least one good (24) in the at least one loading station (30), at least one transport container receiving device (32), wherein the at least one transport container receiving device (32) is configured to receive the at least one transport container (25) in a suspended manner, at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42), with at least one receiving device (45), and at least one control device (51), which is configured to control the flight behavior of the at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42), characterized in that the at least one receiving device (45) of the at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42) is configuredto receive at least one suspended transport container (25) from the at least one transport container receiving device (32).

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one transport container receiving device (32) has at least one strand (33) on which the at least one transport container (25) can be positioned suspended.

3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the at least one strand (33) has several positions along its longitudinal extent, each of which has at least one identification marker.

4. System according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the at least one transport container receiving device (32) has at least one conveying device (34) with at least one conveying unit (35) which is configured to move the at least one transport container (25) from a first position to at least one further position along the at least one strand material (33).

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42) has a recognition unit (46) for recognizing at least one transport container (25). P400179WO_20251229 Page 23 | 26 V1.0 6. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (45) has an interface (48) to exchange data between the at least one transport container (25) and the at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42).

7. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42) has a power supply (49) to supply at least one transport container (25) with power.

8. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one buffer station (60) is provided, wherein the at least one buffer station (60) has at least one strand (63, 64) on which the at least one transport container (25) can be positioned suspended.

9. System according to claim 8, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) is arranged to hang freely on the strand material (63, 64).

10. System according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that at least one buffer station (60) has a distribution device (65).

11. System according to one of the aforementioned claims, characterized in that the at least one control device (51) is arranged in the at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42).

12. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several airworthy means of transport (41, 42) are provided, wherein the at least one control device (51) is designed to control the flight behavior of the several airworthy means of transport.

13. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) has a coupling unit (26) which interacts with the receiving device (45) of the at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42). P400179WO_20251229 Page 24 | 26 V1.0 14. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a flight management device (50) is provided which is connected to the at least one control device (51) for exchanging data.

15. Transport container (25) for a system according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) has a coupling unit (26) which interacts with the receiving device (45) of the at least one airworthy transport means (41, 42).

16. System control unit for data exchange with at least one control unit (51) in at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42) of the system according to one of claims 1 to 14, which is connectable and has a communication interface.

17. Method for transporting goods (24) in a system (20) for the intralogistics distribution of goods, in particular a system according to one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: a. Providing at least one transport container (25) on at least one transport container receiving device (32), wherein the at least one transport container (25) is arranged suspended on the at least one transport container receiving device (32); b. Receiving the at least one transport container (25) with at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42), wherein the at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42) has at least one receiving device (45); c. Exchange of data between the at least one airworthy means of transport (41, 42) and the at least one transport container (25).

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) is transported to a buffer station (60) using the air-capable transport means (41, 42) and is temporarily stored there. P400179WO_20251229 Page 25 | 26 v1.0 19. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) is transported from a buffer station (60) to a final station (70) using the air-capable transport means (41, 42).

20. Method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the at least one transport container (25) is transported from a loading station (30) to a final station (70) using the air-capable transport means (41, 42).

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