Marking device for a transport system, transport system and method for transporting goods in a transport container

Abstract

The invention relates to a marking device for marking a transport container, comprising a carrier disc (1) and a cover disc (2) that is connected to the carrier disc (1) and can be displaced relative to the carrier disc (1) and has a viewing window (3), the carrier disc (1) having a first marking region (4) and a second marking region (6), and the first marking region (4) comprising a plurality of optically perceptible identification features (5) that are different from one another, characterised in that the second marking region (6) has a plurality of machine-readable codes (7), each code (7) being assigned to precisely one identification feature (5) of the first marking region (4), and the viewing window (3) being designed such that all identification features (5) of the first marking region (4) are visible, and the viewing window (3) uncovering precisely one machine-readable code (7) while all other machine-readable codes (7) are concealed.

Description

[0001] Marking device for a transport system, transport system and method for transporting goods in a transport container

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a marking device for marking a transport container, comprising a carrier disc and a cover disc connected to the carrier disc and movable relative to the carrier disc, the cover disc having a viewing window, wherein the carrier disc has a first marking area and a second marking area, and the first marking area comprises several optically perceptible, distinct identification features. The invention further relates to a transport container provided with a marking device, as well as a system and a method for transporting such transport containers.

[0004] Automated transport systems are widely used in various industries and play a major role in modern logistics. These systems utilize a variety of technologies to make the transport of goods efficient and reliable. For example, large warehouses employ automated conveyor systems and stacker cranes to store and retrieve goods. These systems are often equipped with complex software solutions that handle warehouse management and inventory control. Another example is automated transport systems used in the manufacturing industry to move materials and components between different production stations. These systems are often integrated with production control software to optimize the production flow.

[0005] Document DE 10213459 A1 describes a freight transport system with a network of tracks and a number of transport wagons that can move along the tracks. Devices for contactless writing and reading of data on data carriers attached to the transport wagons are mounted on the tracks. When a transport wagon is loaded with goods, the goods' data is written to the wagon's data carrier and deleted when it is unloaded. The data carriers are, for example, transponders mounted in a housing on the rails to protect them from dirt and damage.

[0006] Other areas of application include hospitals, medical facilities, and laboratories where samples of biological or chemical substances are analyzed. In medical facilities, for example, automated transport systems are used to transport samples, medications, and other medical supplies safely and efficiently. These systems are often equipped with software solutions for tracking and managing the transported goods.

[0007] The control and management of these automated transport systems is usually carried out by specialized software solutions that must fulfill a variety of functions, such as managing inventory, optimizing storage space utilization, planning and controlling the movement of the automated transport systems, or real-time monitoring and documentation of the processes.

[0008] Although these automated transport systems and software solutions offer significant advantages, they also present challenges and disadvantages. Setting up and integrating these systems requires substantial investment in hardware, software, and training. Operating and maintaining these systems demands specialized knowledge and expertise.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to further develop the known transport systems into an easy-to-use, robust and cost-effective solution.

[0010] The invention was based on the objective of further developing known transport systems in such a way that they are easy to handle. A further objective of the invention was to reduce the complexity of known transport systems. Another objective of the invention was to provide a system and a method for transporting objects that are robust in operation and cost-effective to implement. A further objective of the invention was to create a flexible and adaptable solution that can be easily adjusted to different requirements and operating conditions.

[0011] These problems are solved according to the invention by a marking device according to claim 1, a transport container according to claim 8, a transport system according to claim 10 and a method for transporting transport containers according to claim 11. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0012] In the following, the terms "have," "exhibit," "comprise," or "include," or any grammatical variations thereof, are used in a non-exclusive manner. Accordingly, these terms can refer both to situations in which, apart from the feature introduced by these terms, no other features are present, and to situations in which one or more other features are present. For example, the expression "A has B," "A exhibits B," "A comprises B," or "A includes B" can refer both to the situation in which, apart from B, no other element is present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists solely of B) and to the situation in which, in addition to B, one or more other elements are present in A, such as element C, elements C and D, or other elements.

[0013] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one" and "one or more," as well as grammatical variations of these terms or similar terms, when used in connection with one or more elements or features and intended to express that the element or feature may be present once or multiple times, are generally used only once, for example, when the feature or element is first introduced. Upon subsequent mention of the feature or element, the corresponding term "at least one" or "one or more" is generally no longer used, without restricting the possibility that the feature or element may be present once or multiple times.

[0014] Furthermore, the terms "preferably," "in particular," "for example," or similar terms are used in the following text in conjunction with optional features without limiting alternative embodiments. Features introduced by these terms are optional features, and it is not intended that these features limit the scope of protection of the claims, and in particular the independent claims. As the person skilled in the art will recognize, the invention can also be implemented using other embodiments. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the invention" or by "in an exemplary embodiment of the invention" are understood as optional features without limiting alternative embodiments or the scope of protection of the independent claims.Furthermore, these introductory expressions are intended to leave all possibilities of combining the features introduced herein with other features, whether optional or non-optional features, unaffected.

[0015] One aspect of the invention relates to a marking device for identifying a transport container, comprising a carrier disc and a cover disc connected to the carrier disc and movable relative to the carrier disc, with a viewing window. The carrier disc has a first marking area and a second marking area, and the first marking area comprises several optically perceptible, distinct identification features. The second marking area has several machine-readable codes, each code being assigned to exactly one identification feature of the first marking area. The viewing window is designed such that all identification features of the first marking area are visible, and the viewing window reveals exactly one machine-readable code while concealing all other machine-readable codes.

[0016] Another aspect of the invention relates to a transport container comprising a base, side walls and optionally a lid, which form the boundary of an interior space for receiving an object, wherein a marking device according to the invention is arranged on an outside of the transport container.

[0017] Another aspect of the invention relates to a transport system for transporting transport containers to a destination, comprising at least one transport container according to the invention, at least one transport device suitable for transporting the transport containers, at least one reading device for capturing the machine-readable coding on the marking device of the transport container, and a control unit which is configured to determine the destination for the transport container corresponding to the coding based on the information provided by the reading device.

[0018] to generate control signals for the transport device that cause the transport unit to move the transport container to the destination, and to transmit the control signals to the transport device.

[0019] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for transporting transport containers to a destination, comprising the steps of:

[0020] Providing a transport container according to the invention, wherein a code corresponding to the destination is legible on the marking device of the transport container,

[0021] Reading the code by a reading device and transmitting the read information to a control unit,

[0022] The control unit determines the destination for the transport container corresponding to the coding based on the information provided by the reader.

[0023] Generation of control signals for the transport device, which cause the transport unit to move the transport container to the destination, and

[0024] Transmission of control signals to the transport system.

[0025] The invention provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective solution for the automated transport of objects in transport containers. The optically perceptible identification features enable clear and unambiguous identification of the transport containers' destinations, thus increasing the user-friendliness and reliability of the transport system. The cover plate, with a viewing window that displays only one code at a time, ensures precise and error-free acquisition of the destination information by readers. The combination of optically perceptible identification features and machine-readable codes reduces the need for complex software solutions. This simplifies the implementation and operation of the transport system and lowers the associated costs. The marking device is robust and cost-effective because it does not require any complex electronic components or software solutions.This makes them particularly suitable for use in various industrial and logistics applications.

[0026] The following terms, as used here, are broad terms to which their ordinary and common meanings, as understood by the person skilled in the art, should be attributed. The terms are not restricted to any specific or adapted meaning.

[0027] The marking device includes a carrier disc. The carrier disc can be made of a flexible or rigid material. In one embodiment, the carrier disc is made of wood, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof. The carrier disc can have various geometric shapes, for example, round, oval, angular, rectangular, square, or polygonal. Preferably, the carrier disc is rectangular. Depending on the requirements, the material and shape can be selected to allow flexible adaptation to the respective operating conditions, particularly with regard to attaching the marking device to a transport container. The dimensions of the carrier disc can be selected according to the requirements, especially depending on the size of the transport containers for which it is intended.In one embodiment, the carrier disc has a minimum diameter of 10 cm to 50 cm and a maximum diameter of 10 cm to 50 cm. The thickness of the carrier disc is preferably from 1 mm to 10 mm.

[0028] In one embodiment, the carrier disc has recesses for fastening means by which it can be attached to the transport container. In another embodiment, the carrier disc has a magnetic fastening device that enables easy and repeatable attachment and removal of the carrier disc from the transport container. The magnetic fastening device can, for example, comprise individual magnets or a coating applied to the back of the carrier disc. The fastening options can also be combined so that a secure and stable attachment of the carrier disc to the transport container can be ensured in every application.

[0029] The carrier disc can have a coating that protects it from external influences such as moisture, dust, or chemical substances, which can increase its durability and reliability. The carrier disc can also be provided with an anti-reflective coating to improve the readability of the optically perceptible codes under varying lighting conditions. Such a coating can be particularly advantageous in environments with strong sunlight.

[0030] The carrier disc further comprises a first identification area, which includes several visually perceptible, distinct identification features. The identification features of the first identification area can include graphic elements, in particular letters, numbers, symbols, and / or images. The identification features of the first identification area can also be color-coded to facilitate the visual differentiation of the destinations. These graphic representations facilitate the quick and unambiguous identification of the destinations. The identification features are preferably designed to provide a clear and intuitive visualization of the possible destinations of a transport container. This has the advantage that the user can select the desired destination quickly and easily.

[0031] In one embodiment, the identification features of the first identification area are arranged side by side. The identification features of the first identification area can be arranged in a row, for example, in a straight line. In another embodiment, the identification features of the first identification area can be arranged adjacent to one another. An advantage of these arrangements is their clarity and the ability to quickly locate the desired destinations of the transport containers. It is also advantageous if the identification features are arranged side by side in such a way that their sequence corresponds to a frequently used sequence of destinations. The identification features can also be arranged according to other criteria, for example, according to the locations to which the transport containers are to be transported.Preferably, the identification features are designed and arranged to allow for intuitive operation of the marking device by the user. In one embodiment, the identification features of the first marking area are interchangeable, allowing for easy updating or replacement. This can be achieved, for example, by using interchangeable plates or modules that are inserted into the carrier disc. Alternatively, the identification features can be affixed to magnetic or adhesive labels that can be easily removed and replaced with new ones. Another possibility is that the entire first marking area is designed as an interchangeable unit that can be completely replaced as needed. This interchangeability offers a high degree of flexibility and adaptability of the system, particularly when the target locations or marking requirements change occasionally.

[0032] The carrier disc has a second identification area which has several machine-readable codes, with each code being assigned to exactly one identification feature of the first identification area.

[0033] In one embodiment, the machine-readable codes of the second identification area are arranged side by side. The machine-readable codes of the second identification area can be arranged side by side in a row, for example, in a straight row. In another embodiment, the machine-readable codes of the second identification area can be arranged adjacent to one another. In one further embodiment, the machine-readable codes of the second identification area are arranged next to their respective corresponding identification features of the first identification area.

[0034] In one embodiment, the machine-readable codes of the second identification area are interchangeable, allowing for easy updating or replacement. This can be achieved, for example, by using interchangeable plates or modules that are inserted into the carrier disc. Alternatively, the machine-readable codes can be applied to magnetic or adhesive labels that can be easily removed and replaced. Another possibility is that the entire second identification area is designed as an interchangeable unit that can be completely replaced as needed. This interchangeability offers a high degree of flexibility and adaptability to the system, particularly when the target locations or identification requirements change occasionally.

[0035] Machine-readable encoding can be optically detectable and include a 1D or 2D code, in particular a barcode, QR code, or data matrix code. These optical codes enable fast and reliable capture of destination information by reading devices.

[0036] A 1D code, also known as a one-dimensional code or barcode, is a type of machine-readable code consisting of a series of parallel lines of varying widths and spacings. These lines represent numeric or alphanumeric data. An example of a 1D code is the barcode, which consists of a series of parallel lines of varying widths and spacings. These lines represent numeric or alphanumeric data that can be read by a barcode scanner. A 2D code, also known as a two-dimensional code, is a type of machine-readable code that stores data in both horizontal and vertical directions. This allows a 2D code to store a larger amount of information in a smaller space than a 1D code. Examples of 2D codes include QR codes and Data Matrix codes.A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a type of 2D code consisting of a square matrix of black and white modules. QR codes can store a variety of data, including URLs, text, and contact information. They can be read by cameras and dedicated QR code scanners. A Data Matrix code is a type of 2D code consisting of a rectangular or square array of black and white cells. Data Matrix codes can store a large amount of data in a small space and are particularly useful for labeling small objects.

[0037] In one embodiment, the machine-readable encoding can be electronically captured, in particular by an RFID tag. These electronic codes enable contactless and efficient capture of destination information by RFID readers. An RFID tag (Radio Frequency Identification Tag) is a small electronic data carrier that transmits information using radio waves. RFID tags consist of a microchip and an antenna and can be used to identify and track objects. They can be used in automated transport systems to store and transmit information about the transported goods.

[0038] The marking device further comprises a cover plate that is connected to the carrier plate and is slidable relative to the carrier plate. The cover plate can be made of a flexible or rigid material. In one embodiment, the cover plate is made of a metal, plastic, or a combination thereof. The cover plate can have various geometric shapes, for example, round, oval, angular, rectangular, square, or polygonal. Preferably, the cover plate is round or rectangular.

[0039] The cover plate has a viewing window designed so that all identification features of the first registration area are visible, and the viewing window reveals exactly one machine-readable code, while all other machine-readable codes are obscured. The term "visibility" in this context is to be understood broadly. It can refer to optical visibility, for example, if the machine-readable codes are designed as optically detectable codes. However, it can also refer to visibility in the sense that electromagnetic radiation penetrates the viewing window but not the rest of the cover plate's surface. The two types of visibility can also be combined, for example, by the viewing window comprising an optically transparent material that is also permeable to electromagnetic radiation.

[0040] The cover plate and the viewing window can be made of different materials, with the material of the viewing window being more transparent to electromagnetic radiation than the material of the rest of the cover plate. In another embodiment, the material thickness of the viewing window can be less than the material thickness of the rest of the cover plate. The material thickness of the viewing window can be selected to be transparent to a specific type of electromagnetic radiation, while the material thickness of the rest of the cover plate is selected to be opaque to the same electromagnetic radiation. The selection of appropriate materials and / or material thicknesses enables targeted detection of the machine-readable code by readers that operate on the basis of electromagnetic radiation, such as RFID readers.

[0041] The arrangement of the viewing window in the cover plate can be adapted to the specific design and requirements. In one embodiment, the viewing window is located at an edge of the cover plate. This embodiment is particularly suitable for designs where the identification features of the first marking area and the machine-readable codes of the second marking area are adjacent to each other. In another embodiment, the viewing window is a recess in the interior of the cover plate.

[0042] In one embodiment, the identification features of the first identification area and the machine-readable codes of the second identification area are arranged on two concentric circular paths, the radii of which are different. In this embodiment, the cover plate is preferably circular. This arrangement allows for a clear layout of the visually perceptible identification features and a simple and unambiguous assignment of the identification features to the corresponding machine-readable codes.

[0043] In one embodiment of this design, the radius of the circular path of the first identification area is larger than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area. In this embodiment, the cover plate is preferably circular, with the radius of the cover plate being larger than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area. The radius of the cover plate is preferably selected such that the cover plate just covers all machine-readable codes, but the identification features are not covered by the cover plate. In this embodiment, the viewing window is preferably arranged at an edge of the cover plate and dimensioned so that it reveals exactly one machine-readable code.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment of this design, the radius of the circular path of the first identification area is smaller than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area. In this embodiment as well, the cover plate is preferably circular, with a larger radius than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area. In this embodiment, the cover plate has a window in its interior that fully exposes the identification features of the first identification area. The window can, for example, be made of an optically transparent material. Alternatively, or in combination, the window can include at least one recess through which the identification features are optically perceptible.In one embodiment, the identification features of the first identification area and the machine-readable codes of the second identification area are arranged on two parallel linear or curved tracks. In this embodiment, the cover plate is preferably slidable along the track of the second identification area. The cover plate can, for example, be designed in a ribbon shape with a longer side and a shorter side. This shape enables stable and uniform movement along the track of the second identification area. Depending on the design and arrangement of the cover plate, the viewing window is preferably located at an edge of the cover plate or within it.

[0045] The carrier disc and cover disc are connected to each other in a way that allows them to slide relative to one another. In one embodiment, the carrier disc is fixed to the marking device, while the cover disc can be moved to position the viewing window as desired to display a code. In another embodiment, the cover disc is fixed to the marking device, and in particular, the viewing window is fixed to the marking window. In this embodiment, the carrier disc can be moved to display the desired code.

[0046] The carrier disc and / or the cover disc can contain integrated sensors that detect the position of the cover disc and transmit this information to a control unit. This design can be particularly advantageous in transport systems where quality control plays a major role.

[0047] The marking device may include further components. In one embodiment, the marking device has a cover plate in addition to the carrier disc and the cover plate. In one embodiment, the cover plate is arranged between the carrier disc and the cover plate. The cover plate may, for example, be dimensioned such that it partially or completely covers the carrier disc. In this case, the cover plate has at least one opening that is dimensioned and arranged such that the first marking area and the second marking area are exposed and not covered by the cover plate. In one embodiment, the cover plate is arranged above the cover plate. The cover plate may, for example, be dimensioned such that it partially or completely covers the carrier disc and / or the cover plate.In this case, too, the cover plate has at least one opening, dimensioned and positioned so that the first and second marking areas are exposed and not covered by the cover plate. The cover plate can be slidably mounted on the cover plate relative to the carrier plate. The cover plate can, for example, be designed to attach the marking device to a transport container using fasteners, while the carrier plate and / or the cover plate are interchangeably mounted on the cover plate. The cover plate can also be designed and intended to protect the carrier plate and / or the cover plate from wear caused by environmental influences.

[0048] The marking device may further include elements designed to secure the position of the viewing window against unintentional slippage or displacement, which could be caused, for example, by vibrations during the transport of a container equipped with a marking device. In one embodiment, the carrier disc, the cover disc, and / or any cover plate are provided with a locking mechanism, e.g., a notch or a groove, which holds the cover disc in the set position and can only be moved from this position by a defined force. In another embodiment, the carrier disc, the cover disc, and / or any cover plate comprise one or more areas that exhibit increased friction.

[0049] The transport container comprises at least a base and side walls that form the boundaries of an interior space for holding an object. The transport container may also have a lid, which may be loose or lockable. A marking device according to the invention is arranged on an outer surface of the transport container. In one embodiment, the transport container has a removable lid on the outer surface of which a marking device according to the invention is attached.

[0050] The transport container can be made, for example, from a robust plastic material that is lightweight yet resistant to mechanical stress. The side walls and base of the container can be reinforced to provide additional protection for the contents. The transport container can also be made of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, which makes it particularly suitable for use in environments with high hygiene requirements, such as medical laboratories or food processing plants.

[0051] The container can be manufactured in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different types and quantities of goods. For example, a smaller container might be used for transporting samples in a laboratory, while a larger container is suitable for transporting larger items in a production facility. The optional lid of the transport container can be removable and fitted with a seal to protect the contents from external influences such as dust or moisture.

[0052] The marking device can be attached to the outside of the lid or to the outside of one of the container's side walls, depending on the specific application requirements. The marking device can be detachably or permanently connected to the transport container. Suitable fastening methods are known in the prior art, such as gluing, screwing, riveting, or other suitable positive-locking, force-locking, or material-locking connections. The marking device can also be attached to the transport container using fasteners, such as magnets or magnetic coatings.

[0053] The transport system comprises at least one transport device for moving transport containers to a destination. The transport devices within the system can enable transport in different spatial directions and can be arranged, for example, horizontally and / or vertically. These transport devices are preferably selected and configured to efficiently and safely transport the containers to their respective destinations. Examples of suitable transport devices include conveyor belts, rail-guided systems, elevators, semi-autonomous or autonomous vehicles such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and any combination thereof.

[0054] An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) is a driverless transport vehicle used for the automated transport of goods within a defined area. AGVs navigate automatically using various technologies such as magnetic strips, lasers, cameras, or GPS and are able to follow predefined routes and detect obstacles.

[0055] In this context, an autonomous mobile robot (AMR) is understood to be a transport vehicle that can move and navigate independently within its predefined environment without relying on predetermined paths or human control. AMRs utilize advanced technologies such as sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to perceive their surroundings, detect obstacles, and plan efficient routes.

[0056] In one embodiment, the transport system comprises a plurality of transport containers, each equipped with a marking device according to the invention to determine the destination of the transport containers.

[0057] The transport system also includes a reader for capturing the machine-readable code on the marking device of the transport container. The reader can comprise various components designed for reading the machine-readable codes. Depending on the type of code, the reader might include, for example, an optical scanner or a camera capable of capturing machine-readable codes such as barcodes, QR codes, or Data Matrix codes. The reader may also include an RFID antenna and / or an RFID reader to read codes based on RFID tags.

[0058] The reader may include additional hardware components or software that support reading the information contained in the encodings. For example, the reader may include a lighting unit to improve the readability of the optical encodings under varying lighting conditions. It may also include a processing unit, such as a microcontroller or an embedded processor, to process the captured data and extract relevant information from the machine-readable encodings.

[0059] The reader's software can comprise various modules that process the captured data and forward it to the control unit. For example, image processing software can analyze images captured by an optical scanner or camera, recognize the machine-readable codes, and decode the information they contain. Preferably, the reader also includes communication software for communication between the reader and the control unit. This software can support various communication protocols, such as Ethernet, WLAN, or Bluetooth. The transport system further comprises a control unit configured to communicate with the reader and the transport device.In another embodiment, the transport system is equipped with a central control unit that acquires the information from the machine-readable codes of the marking devices and generates the control signals for the transport equipment based on this information. Alternatively, the system can also be controlled decentrally, with, for example, each transport device independently reading the codes and determining the corresponding transport routes.

[0060] The control unit can comprise various hardware components that handle the processing of the read information and the control of the transport equipment. For example, the control unit might include a central processing unit (CPU) or a microcontroller to process the incoming data from the reader and perform calculations and generate signals. The control unit can also include one or more memory units, such as RAM or hard disk storage, to store, for example, the read data, the processing algorithms, or the control software. Furthermore, the control unit can include communication interfaces, such as Ethernet, WLAN, Bluetooth, or serial interfaces, to enable connections with the reader, the transport equipment, or external databases.Finally, the control unit may also have input units and / or output units that allow interaction with the system, such as control panels, touchscreens, keyboards or displays.

[0061] In another embodiment, the control unit can communicate with a database used to decode the information contained in the machine-readable codes. This database can, for example, contain information about the destinations and the corresponding control commands for the transport equipment. When a machine-readable code is read, the control unit can transmit the information to the database to decode the destination and retrieve the corresponding control commands. These control commands can then be sent to the transport equipment to move the container to its destination efficiently and reliably. Communication with the database enables flexible and dynamic adaptation of the transport system to different requirements and operating conditions.

[0062] In another embodiment, the transport system can include additional sensors that monitor the position of the transport containers in real time and transmit it to the control unit to ensure precise and reliable control and / or tracking of the transport.

[0063] Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, particularly in conjunction with the dependent claims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. The embodiments are depicted schematically in the drawings. The drawings are to be understood as schematic representations. They do not constitute a limitation of the invention, for example, with regard to specific dimensions or design variants, unless otherwise stated in the description of the drawings. Identical reference numerals in the individual drawings denote identical or functionally equivalent elements, or elements corresponding to one another with respect to their functions.

[0064] The following are shown in schematic representation:

[0065] Fig. 1: a marking device according to a first embodiment of the invention

[0066] Fig. 2: the carrier disc of the marking device according to Fig. 1

[0067] Fig. 3: a cover plate for the marking device according to Fig. 1

[0068] Examples of implementation

[0069] Fig. 1 shows a marking device for identifying a transport container according to a first embodiment of the invention. The marking device comprises a carrier disc 1 and a cover disc 2, which is connected to the carrier disc 1 and is slidable relative to the carrier disc 1, and has a viewing window 3. The carrier disc 1 has a first marking area 4 and a second marking area 6. The first marking area 4 comprises several optically perceptible, distinct identification features 5. The second marking area 6 has several machine-readable codes 7, each code 7 being assigned to exactly one identification feature 5 of the first marking area 4. In the example according to Fig. 1, the codes are implemented as a Data Matrix code and can be optically detected by a reading device.

[0070] The viewing window 3 is designed such that all identification features 5 of the first marking area 4 are visible, and the viewing window 3 reveals exactly one machine-readable code 7, while all other machine-readable codes 7 are obscured. In Fig. 1, the cover plate 2 is shown semi-transparently to illustrate the arrangement of the second marking area 6, which is covered by the cover plate 2. In actual implementations, the cover plate 2 can be semi-transparent if, for example, a reading device is designed to detect only the code 7 revealed by the viewing window 3 and ignore the obscured codes. However, the cover plate 2 can also be opaque, so that only the code 7 revealed by the viewing window 3 is optically detectable. Fig. 2 shows the marking device according to Fig. 1 on the carrier plate 1.1. Existing license plate areas 4, 6 for clarification without cover plate 2.

[0071] The identification features 5 of the first identification area 4 and the machine-readable codes 7 of the second identification area 6 are arranged on two concentric circular paths. The radius of the circular path of the first identification area 4 is larger than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area 6. The identification features 5 and the machine-readable codes 7 are arranged next to and adjacent to each other. The corresponding identification features 5 and machine-readable codes 7 are also arranged adjacent to each other.

[0072] The cover plate 2 is circular, with a radius larger than the radius of the circular path of the second identification area 6. The cover plate 2 can be made of a durable material, such as plastic. The viewing window 3 is arranged as a recess at the edge of the cover plate 2. Its size is dimensioned to correspond exactly to the outer shape of a machine-readable code 7.

[0073] A cover plate 10 can be arranged between the carrier disc 1 and the cover disc 2. This cover plate 10 covers the carrier disc 1, and the cover disc 2 is rotatably attached to it. Fig. 3 shows an example of such a cover plate 10. The cover plate has an opening 11, which is dimensioned and shaped such that the entire first marking area 4 of the carrier disc and at least the viewing window 3 of the cover disc 2 are optically visible. In the example shown, the opening is shaped as a segment of a circular ring. The cover plate can have bores 12 through which, for example, screws can be inserted as fasteners for attaching the marking device to the transport container.

[0074] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the identification features 5 designate different rooms in a laboratory building. The marking device according to Fig. 1 further comprises a third identification area 9, which is also arranged concentrically to the two circular paths of the first identification area 4 and the second identification area 6. The radius of the third identification area 9 is larger than the radius of the first identification area 4 and connects seamlessly to it in the radial direction. With regard to its information content, the third identification area 9 groups the rooms of the first identification area 1 according to levels, i.e., floors, in the building. Level zero is assigned four rooms, level one is assigned two rooms, level two is assigned three rooms, level three is assigned only one room, level four is assigned four rooms, and level five is assigned three rooms.

[0075] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the third room in plane two is selected as the destination. One possible sequence for transporting a container equipped with the marking device on its outside from a room in plane zero to the destination is as follows:

[0076] A sample to be analyzed is placed in the transport container at the sample inlet on level zero. The cover plate 2 of the marking device is set to a default rest position 8 in which no machine-readable code 7 is visible.

[0077] The target location of the sample, which is designated as the third space in plane two by the identification feature 5, is set on the marking device by rotating the cover plate 2 so that the corresponding coding 7 of the third space in plane two is visible in the viewing window 3.

[0078] The transport container is transferred to an autonomous mobile robot (AMR), which transports the container on level zero to a vertical transport device, such as an elevator. At the vertical transport device, the code 7, in this case the data matrix code, is optically read by a reader. Based on the information encoded in code 7, the destination floor of the elevator is determined, in this case, level two.

[0079] The transport container is moved to the destination floor. Upon exiting the vertical transport system, the transport container is transferred to a second AMR (Automated Material Handling Unit). This AMR transports the container to the third room on level two, where the sample can be removed and processed.

[0080] The transport system can be configured such that all routes and transfers from one transport device to another are already determined when code 7 is first read. Alternatively, the system can be configured so that code 7 is read and processed again at each transfer point, for example, from an AMR to the vertical transport device or vice versa. The first option is particularly suitable for a centralized automation system, whereas the second option is more suitable for an automation system with decentralized controllers. Reference symbol list

[0081] 1 carrier disc

[0082] 2 Cover plate

[0083] 3 viewing windows

[0084] 4 First license plate area 5 Identification feature

[0085] 6 Second identification area 7 Machine-readable coding 8 Rest position

[0086] 9 Third license plate area 10 Cover plate

[0087] 11 Opening

[0088] 12 bore

Claims

Patent claims 1. Marking device for marking a transport container, comprising a carrier disc (1) and a cover disc (2) connected to the carrier disc (1) and movable relative to the carrier disc (1), with a viewing window (3), wherein the carrier disc (1) has a first marking area (4) and a second marking area (6), and the first marking area (4) comprises several optically perceptible, distinct identification features (5), characterized in that the second marking area (6) has several machine-readable codes (7), wherein each code (7) is assigned to exactly one identification feature (5) of the first marking area (4), and the viewing window (3) is designed such that all identification features (5) of the first marking area (4) are visible, and the viewing window (3) reveals exactly one machine-readable code (7), while all other machine-readable codes (7) are concealed.

2. Marking device according to claim 1, characterized in that the identification features (5) of the first marking area (4) and / or the machine-readable codes (7) of the second marking area (6) are arranged next to each other, preferably in a row next to each other and / or adjacent to each other.

3. Marking device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the identification features (5) of the first marking area (4) comprise graphic elements, in particular letters, numbers, symbols and / or pictorial elements.

4. Marking device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the machine-readable codes (7) are optically detectable and comprise a 1D code or 2D code, in particular a barcode, QR code or data matrix code, and / or the machine-readable codes (7) are electronically detectable, in particular an RFID tag.

5. Marking device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification features (5) of the first marking area (4) and the machine-readable codes (7) of the second marking area (6) are arranged on two concentric circular paths, wherein the radius of the two circular paths is different.

6. Marking device according to claim 5, characterized in that the radius of the circular path of the first marking area (4) is larger than the radius of the circular path of the second marking area (6), the cover plate (2) is circular, the radius of the cover plate (2) is larger than the radius of the circular path of the second marking area (6), and the viewing window (3) is arranged at the edge of the cover plate (2).

7. Marking device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cover plate (10) is arranged between the carrier plate (1) and the cover plate (2) and / or above the cover plate (2), the cover plate having at least one opening (11) which is dimensioned and arranged such that the first marking area (4) and the second marking area (6) are not covered by the cover plate (10).

8. Transport container comprising a base, side walls and optionally a lid, which form the boundary of an interior space for receiving an object, characterized in that a marking device according to one of the preceding claims is arranged on an outside of the transport container.

9. Transport container according to claim 8, characterized in that the transport container has a removable lid, and the marking device is attached to the outside of the lid.

10. Transport system for transporting transport containers to a destination comprising at least one transport container according to claim 8 or 9, at least one transport device suitable for transporting the transport containers, at least one reader for capturing the machine-readable coding on the marking device of the transport container, and a control unit configured to determine the destination for the transport container corresponding to the coding based on the information provided by the reader. to generate control signals for the transport device that cause the transport unit to move the transport container to the destination, and to transmit the control signals to the transport device.

11. Method for transporting transport containers to a destination, comprising the steps: Providing a transport container according to claim 8 or 9, wherein a code corresponding to the destination is legible on the marking device of the transport container, Reading the code by a reading device and transmitting the read information to a control unit, The control unit determines the destination for the transport container corresponding to the coding based on the information provided by the reader. Generation of control signals for the transport device, which cause the transport unit to move the transport container to the destination, and Transmission of control signals to the transport system.

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