DE102018203420A1 - Module and method for locating or monitoring an object and system for locating or monitoring a plurality of objects - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) for locating or monitoring an object (1), comprising:
- Attachment means for securing the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to the object (1) and
- A communication unit (30) having a transmitter (32) and a receiver (34), wherein the communication unit (30) is configured to communicate with at least one further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) which is within range the communication unit (30) of the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) is located.
Furthermore, the invention relates to a method and a system.

Description

The invention relates to a module and a method for locating or monitoring an object and system for locating or monitoring a plurality of objects.

In almost all applications in the areas of warehousing, logistics and transport of goods, materials and articles, it is necessary to mark the individual storage or transport units in such a way that the contents can be clearly identified from the outside. In some applications, it is also desirable to monitor a condition of the goods.

For example, an inventory management system for locating goods in a warehouse is from the publication US Pat. No. 9,552,569 B1 known. The system proposed there, however, is complicated and expensive, since a relatively complex infrastructure must be built in the camp.

Furthermore, from the document US 2016/0307154 A1 a device and a method for identifying goods that enable condition monitoring of the goods.

There is a need to further improve the location and monitoring of goods in a warehouse. Here, the complexity of the infrastructure to reduce costs is to be kept low.

It is the object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

This object is achieved by a module for locating or monitoring an object, a system for locating or monitoring a plurality of, and a method for locating or monitoring an object according to the independent claims. Further developments are described in the dependent claims and in the following description.

• Befestigungsmittel zum Befestigen des Moduls an dem Objekt und
• eine Kommunikationseinheit mit einem Sender und einem Empfänger, wobei die Kommunikationseinheit ausgestaltet ist zum Kommunizieren mit mindestens einem weiteren Modul, welches sich in Reichweite der Kommunikationseinheit des Moduls befindet.

The module for locating or monitoring an object includes:

• Fastening means for securing the module to the object and
• a communication unit having a transmitter and a receiver, wherein the communication unit is configured to communicate with at least one further module which is within range of the communication unit of the module.

Within the meaning of the present specification, the range is that distance which may exist at most between the transmitter and the receiver of the respective modules, so that communication between the transmitter and the receiver of the two modules is still possible. As a rule, the range is defined by the signal-to-noise ratio required for a selected transmission protocol. The range depends, among other things, on the power of the transmitter and the sensitivity of the receiver. Typically, the range is less than 1000 m, 250 m, 100 m, 50 m, 20 m, 10 m or less than 5 m.

The object may be a good or a good, which may be e.g. temporarily stored in a warehouse or is stored. The object can in particular be movable or movable. In the following description, the terms object, good and goods are used interchangeably. Where an object is described can also be meant a commodity or a good and vice versa.

The module may be able to communicate with any other module that is within range of the module. By communicating the module with the other module, localization or monitoring of moving objects in a warehouse can be facilitated. This function can be used for various applications described below.

The communication unit may comprise, for example, a WLAN or WPAN unit. In particular, the communication unit may have a Bluetooth unit or another unit which is designed to communicate via a near-field connection with a further communication unit of the further module. Other types of wireless connections such as EnOcean, Z-Wave, Zigbee, WiMAX, UMTS / HSDPA, LTE (long term evolution), NanoNetm, UWB (Ultra Wideband), NB-loT (Narrowband Internet of Things), Sigfox or LoRa are also available for the Communication of the communication unit possible and are known in the art.

• - Empfangen einer Nachricht des weiteren Moduls und/oder einer zentralen Steuereinheit und/oder
• - Senden einer Nachricht an das weitere Modul und/oder an die zentrale Steuereinheit.

The communication unit can be designed for

• Receiving a message of the further module and / or a central control unit and / or
• Sending a message to the further module and / or to the central control unit.

The message may in particular contain information, data, measured values, queries and / or commands. For example, the message State information or position information about the object to be located.

In a development, the communication unit is configured to forward a message of the further module to the central control unit and / or to forward a message of the central control unit to the further module. Thus, even with a limited range of communication, a message can be forwarded to the addressee via said module. Here, e.g. The principle of the meshed network is effective. In a meshed network, each network node is connected to one or more others. The message is passed from node to node until it reaches the destination (module or central control unit). If each participant (module) is connected to every other participant (module), this is called a fully meshed network. In this case, the modules correspond to the nodes mentioned above. Meshed nets are usually self-healing and therefore very reliable: if a node or connection is blocked or fails, the net can knit around it again. The data or message is redirected and the network is still operational.

In particular, the range of the individual modules can be reduced because the modules are able to communicate with each other. As a result, relatively low transmission powers of the transmitter of the modules can be selected, which is able to reduce the energy consumption of the corresponding module. Furthermore, by providing a plurality of decentralized modules in a large warehouse, a complex infrastructure can be dispensed with.

If modules are outside the radio range of the central control unit, this range can also be extended by the meshed network. For example, modules that are within the reach of the central control unit can relay messages, information, data or commands to modules that are still within range of the respective module outside the reach of the central control unit.

The module may include at least one first sensor for determining an environmental parameter of the object, such as humidity, pressure, temperature or acceleration or the like. As a result, a state of the object can be monitored. The first sensor may be, for example, a light sensor (visible light sensor), a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, a UV sensor, an acceleration sensor, a pressure sensor, a smoke sensor, a radiation sensor such as a Geiger counter, a sound sensor, an E Field sensor, a contact sensor or a magnetic field sensor.

The invention is not limited to a particular sensor. The sensor may be configured to acquire data or measurements at regular time intervals, e.g. hourly, daily or monthly. The sensor can also be configured to acquire data or measured values only after a corresponding command. This can save power, which can extend the life of the power supply (e.g., battery or rechargeable battery) of the module. The command may be given to the sensor by a processing unit (see below) or an input unit (see below). Furthermore, the command can be given by the further module or the central control unit to the sensor. Furthermore, the sensor can be designed to forward data or measured values to the communication unit only after falling below or exceeding a limit value. The said command to the sensor may also include a setting of the sensor or a change in the setting of the sensor, the setting being e.g. a sensitivity of the sensor, a frequency of measurements and / or a timing of the measurements may include. The setting of the sensor can thus be changed via an input at the central control unit. The input to the central control unit may also be from a third medium connected to the central control unit, e.g. a computer, a smartphone or a tablet.

For example, the communication unit may be configured to send data and / or measured values to the further module and / or the central control unit if a specific condition exists.

The said specific condition is, for example, the undershooting or exceeding of a predetermined limit value of a measured value measured by the first sensor, and the message to the central control unit and / or the further module contains, for example, at least the measured value or the measured data of the first sensor.

Alternatively or additionally, the communication unit may be configured to send data or measured values to the further module and / or the central control unit upon receipt of a request or a command. The request may e.g. be forwarded from the further module and / or the central control unit to the communication unit.

The module may include a second sensor for detecting a signal strength of a signal sent by the further module. The signal strength may depend, for example, on the following factors: transmission power, signal frequency, free space damping (additional damping due to obstacles such as Walls or objects), and sensor sensitivity. The signal may in this case be the transmission signal of the transmitter of the communication unit. In this case, the receiver of the communication unit forms the second sensor. But it can also be provided that the signal of the other module is sent by a different type of signal generator. For example, the module and / or the further module may comprise a signal generator in addition to the transmitter of the communication unit. The signal generator may in this case be designed to output an acoustic signal, a light signal, an electromagnetic signal, a radio signal or the like. The second sensor of the module can be configured to measure the signal of the signal generator of the further module and in particular to detect the signal strength of the signal.

The processing unit of the module can be designed to determine a distance to the further module on the basis of the signal strength measured by the second sensor. Each module can determine its relative distance to other modules by the signal strength of each module in range. By using e.g. Triangulation can be calculated by combining several of these distance information, the relative positions of the respective modules to each calculate and thus determine the structure of the entire network. If the absolute positions of the individual modules are known, the absolute positions of the other sensor modules can be calculated from these data.

Further, the processing unit may be configured to determine the number of further modules within range of the module. The communication unit may be configured to forward the number of additional modules within range of the module to the further module and / or the central control unit.

• Signale der oben beschriebenen Sensoren zu bearbeiten, zu verarbeiten und/oder auszuwerten; und/oder
• einen oder mehrere oder sämtliche der beschriebenen Sensoren anzusteuern. Dadurch kann das Modul befähigt werden Signale der Sensoren direkt oder vorgefiltert an andere Module oder die zentrale Steuereinheit weiterzuleiten.

The module may include a processing unit such as a processor, a microcontroller, a microprocessor and / or a digital signal processor. The processing unit is typically designed to do this

• To process, process and / or evaluate signals of the sensors described above; and or
• to control one or more or all of the sensors described. As a result, the module can be enabled to forward signals from the sensors directly or prefiltered to other modules or the central control unit.

The module may further include a memory such as e.g. random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a hard disk, a magnetic storage medium and / or an optical drive. A program may be stored in the memory, e.g. a software for processing or processing the data and / or the signals of one or more of the above-mentioned sensors.

The module may include an identification means associated with the module and / or the object to be located. The identification means may be a barcode, a screen, at least one LED and / or a color code. An identification code or identification number associated with the respective module or object may be stored in the memory of the module. This allows a clear identification of each module and / or object.

In a further embodiment, certain properties of the object are stored or storable in the memory. The transmitter and / or the signal generator and / or an output unit (see below) of the module can be configured to issue a warning message if the object has a certain property, such as in particular flammable, radioactive, explosive or flammable. This embodiment is useful, for example, for objects such as dangerous goods, which may not be combined in a warehouse. If two dangerous objects stand side by side, the modules connected to the objects can warn each other or send an alarm to the central control unit. Furthermore, a product code of the object, danger symbols of the object, a selling price of the object, manufacturing, manufacturer data of the object, a warehouse number of the object, a date of usability of the object, encryption software, security and anti-theft software and the like can be stored in the memory.

The fastener is designed to reliably secure the module to the object. In a preferred embodiment, the module is at the same time firmly and detachably connected to the object by means of the fastening means. Basically, the chosen fastener depends on the type of goods or the packaging of the goods. Furthermore, the storage location can have an influence on the selected fastening means. Depending on the application, hook, eyelet, adhesive, hook and loop fastener, suction cup, securing tape, etc. may be considered for the fastener. The fastener may also be used to secure the module to a previously known location, such as on a wall of a bearing. The attachment means may comprise an anti-slip body configured to prevent relative movement between the attachment means and the object. The slip-resistant body can thus impart static friction between the module and the object, whereby the module remains on the object. Depending on the object, the slip-resistant body having a static friction coefficient of at least 0.5, preferably at least 0.8 or even greater than 1. The slip-resistant body may comprise, for example, a layer or a foam. For example, the body is formed of a rubber such as silicone rubber or acrylic rubber.

The module usually comprises a housing in which the components of the module are arranged. The housing may comprise, for example, a metal housing or a plastic housing or a combination of metal and plastic. The attachment means may be an integral part of the housing or connected to the housing. The material of the fastening means may be made of the same material of the housing. Alternatively, the material of the fastener may differ from the material.

The module may further comprise an input unit. The input unit may e.g. include one or more buttons, one or more buttons, one or more levers, a touch-sensitive screen, a mouse, or the like. By means of the input unit, e.g. Components of the module, such as one of the sensors to be programmed. Furthermore, the input unit can be used to determine which type of product is attached to the module. The input unit is preferably connected to at least the first sensor, the second sensor, the memory, the processing unit and / or the communication unit. It may be provided that the communication unit is designed according to an input made by the input unit by a user for sending the data and / or measured values to the further module and / or to the central control unit.

The module may also include an output unit. The output unit may be designed as a display unit, such as a screen, at least one LED or a light. The output unit may also include a vibration system and / or an acoustic output unit. The input unit and the output unit may be combined in a touch-sensitive screen. The processing unit of the module may cause the output unit to issue a warning signal.

The module may have a power supply. The power supply may be or include a battery or a rechargeable battery. Further, the power supply may include a solar cell. It can also be provided that the power supply comprises an antenna or a coupling coil for a wireless energy transmission. The power supply usually provides the power necessary for the operation of the sensors, the communication unit, the input unit, the output unit, the signal generator, the memory and / or the processing unit.

• - Befestigungsmittel zum Befestigen des weiteren Moduls an einem weiteren zu ortenden Objekt,
• - eine Kommunikationseinheit mit einem Sender und einem Empfänger, wobei die Kommunikationseinheit ausgestaltet ist zum Kommunizieren mit dem oben beschriebenen Modul, welches sich in Reichweite der Kommunikationseinheit des weiteren Moduls befindet.

The further module may have the same or similar construction as the said module. Thus, the further module may comprise all the features described in connection with said module. The further module comprises at least

• Fixing means for fixing the further module to another object to be located,
• - A communication unit with a transmitter and a receiver, wherein the communication unit is configured to communicate with the module described above, which is within range of the communication unit of the further module.

Further, a system for locating or monitoring a plurality of objects in a warehouse is proposed. The system includes a variety of the previously described modules. For example, the system may include at least said module and the further module. The modules of the system are each designed to communicate within a range with at least one of the other modules. The system may be designed so that each module can communicate with every other module. If two modules are not within range of each other, at least a third module may forward messages of the first module to the second module and vice versa. The system can thus form a meshed network, as explained further above. All modules of the system may have the same structure, i. the modules are identical.

The system can in particular have a central control unit. The central control unit usually has a central communication unit and a central processing unit, wherein the central communication unit is designed to communicate with at least one of the modules. The central control unit may e.g. be designed as a PC, smartphone, tablet, laptop or notebook. The central control unit may be a movable or movable unit or be stationary.

The central control unit typically differs from said module and said further module. Thus, the central communication unit typically has a greater transmit and receive power than the communication unit of the module. Furthermore, the central processing unit usually has a more powerful processing unit than the module or modules. In addition, the central control unit in the Usually not designed to be attached with an object. Furthermore, the central control unit is designed to control and / or control the modules. For example, the central control unit may command the modules to perform certain actions or measurements or to change settings.

The central processing unit may comprise a microcontroller, a processor, a microprocessor and / or a digital signal processor. The central processing unit may be configured to process or process signals or data from one or more of the above sensors of the modules. For the processing and / or processing of the signals and / or the data of the above-mentioned sensors, the central processing unit may comprise a microcontroller, a processor, a microprocessor and / or a digital signal processor. In this case, a digital signal processor (DSP) can be designed for continuous processing of digital signals, for example digital signals of the above-mentioned sensors. It can further be provided that the central control unit is designed to control one or more of the said sensors of the modules.

Furthermore, the central control unit may comprise one or more memories, such as e.g. random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a hard disk, a magnetic storage medium and / or an optical drive. A program may be stored in the memory, e.g. a software for controlling the modules, processing or processing the data and / or the signals of a sensor or a plurality of the above-mentioned sensors.

The central communication unit is preferably designed as a wireless communication unit with a transmitter and a receiver. The central communication unit may form part of a network, such as the meshed network discussed above, or may be connected to a network. The central communication unit is wirelessly connected to the communication unit of at least one of said modules. Possible wireless connections include, for example, WLAN or WPAN, in particular Bluetooth, or other near-field connections. Other types of wireless connections such as EnOcean, Z-Wave, Zigbee, WiMAX, UMTS / HSDPA, LTE (long term evolution), NanoNetm, UWB (Ultra Wideband), NB-loT (Narrowband Internet of Things), Sigfox or LoRa are also possible and are known in the art.

It may further be provided that each module comprises said second sensor and said processing unit, wherein each processing unit is configured to determine a distance to this module based on a signal strength of a signal transmitted by a module located within range measured by the second sensor. Preferably, each module is designed to pass the distances determined by the module to at least one other module and / or the central control unit, wherein the processing unit of at least one module or the processing unit of the central control unit is configured, relative positions of the modules based on the determined distances of the modules to determine each other.

In particular, the system may comprise a stationary module with a known position. At least one processing unit of one of the modules or the central control unit is preferably designed to determine the positions of the modules with respect to the stationary module.

In a further embodiment, at least one module comprises an input unit, via which an absolute position of this module can be entered. At least one processing unit of one of the modules or the central control unit may be configured to determine the positions of the modules with respect to the absolute position of the module. By "absolute position" is meant a position in space that is typically stationary and known so that this absolute position is suitable for calibrating the positions of the modules of the system.

In one embodiment, each module includes the aforementioned memory in which is stored an identification code or an identification number associated with the respective module or object. The central control unit can send a request to the modules in range, which or how many modules are within range of the modules. This request can be sent by the modules located within range of the central control unit to other modules that are outside the reach of the central control unit, with the proviso to send the response of the request back to the central control unit. In this way, the central control unit can detect all modules of the system. In addition, if the distances of the modules from each other are detected (see above), the entire structure of the system can be determined, preferably by the central processing unit or alternatively by the processing unit of one of the modules.

• - Befestigen des zuvor beschriebenen Moduls an einem Objekt,
• - Übermitteln einer Nachricht des Moduls an das weitere Modul und/oder die zentrale Steuereinheit und/oder
• - Empfangen einer Nachricht des weiteren Moduls und/oder einer zentralen Steuereinheit.

In addition, the present invention provides a method of location or monitoring an object proposed. The method comprises at least the following steps:

• Attaching the module described above to an object,
• Transmitting a message of the module to the further module and / or the central control unit and / or
• Receiving a message of the further module and / or a central control unit.

The module, the central control unit, the further module and the messages are described above. It should be emphasized at this point that features which have been mentioned only in relation to the module or the further module or the central control unit or the system can also be claimed for the said method and vice versa.

• 1 ein Modul zum Orten und Überwachen einer Ware, welches an der Ware befestigt ist;
• 2 eine schematische Zeichnung des Moduls der 1;
• 3 eine schematische Zeichnung einer zentralen Steuereinheit; und
• 4 eine schematische Zeichnung eines Systems zum Orten und Überwachen einer Vielzahl von Waren in einem Lager.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to accompanying figures. In the figures show:

• 1 a module for locating and monitoring a commodity attached to the commodity;
• 2 a schematic drawing of the module of 1 ;
• 3 a schematic drawing of a central control unit; and
• 4 a schematic drawing of a system for locating and monitoring a variety of goods in a warehouse.

The 1 shows a moving product 1 which on a pallet 2 in a warehouse 5 is stored. On the goods 1 is a module 10 for locating and monitoring the goods 1 by means of fasteners 20 attached. The module 10 was in the goods receipt of the camp 5 with the goods 1 connected. The module 10 includes a housing 22 , which consists of a durable material such as metal or a thermoset or comprises at least one of these materials. The housing 22 is by means of the fastener 20 detachable with the goods 1 connected. The fastener 22 is in the illustrated embodiment, a backup tape, which by a on the housing 22 of the module 10 located eyelet (not shown) has been pushed and with the goods 1 is firmly connected. Other fasteners 20 are for fixing the module 10 with the goods 1 also conceivable.

The 2 shows a schematic drawing of the module 10 the 1 , The module 10 includes a communication unit 30 with a transmitter 32 and a receiver 34 , a variety of sensors 40 . 42 , an input unit 50 , a power supply 55 , a processing unit 60 , a store 70 , a signal generator 80 and an output unit 90 , The following are the functions of each component of the module 10 explained in more detail.

The communication unit 30 is configured to communicate with a similar other module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 which is within reach of the communication unit 30 of the module 10 located. If the communication unit 30 within reach of a central control unit explained below 100 is the communication unit 30 also capable with the control unit 100 to communicate. The communication of the communication unit 30 with the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 and the control unit 100 typically occurs via a near field connection, such as Bluetooth. The communication between the module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 and the control unit 100 or the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 is possible in both directions. In other words, the module 10 a message from the control unit 100 or the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 receive and send a message to the control unit 100 or the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 send. The message may include, for example, information, data, commands, queries, measurements, or the like.

Furthermore, the module comprises at least one first sensor 40 and a second sensor 42 , The first sensor 40 is designed to be an environmental parameter of the product 1 capture. Depending on the field of application, the first sensor 40 a light sensor (visible light sensor), a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, a UV sensor, an acceleration sensor, a pressure sensor, a smoke sensor, a radiation sensor such as a Geiger counter, a sound sensor, an E-field sensor, a contact sensor or be a magnetic field sensor. Other types of sensors also come for the first sensor 40 into consideration.

The at least one sensor 40 is usually by the processing unit 60 driven. The processing unit 60 is preferably suitable for the sensor 40 to control such that the environmental parameter is detected at predetermined time intervals, and the memory 70 suitable for storing the detected environmental parameter.

The processing unit 60 can be designed to that of the first sensor 40 measured sensor data when falling below or exceeding a predetermined or presettable limit value to the communication unit 30 forward. The communication unit 30 then forwards the sensor data to the central control unit 100 ,

Next is the communication unit 30 designed after receiving a request or command of central control unit 100 or the other module 14 Data, readings, information from the memory 70 to the central control unit 100 or the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 to send.

The input unit 50 allows a user to enter the memory 70 of the module 10 or in the processing unit 60 of the module 10 , The input at the input unit 50 can the communication unit 30 induce data or readings of the sensor 40 to the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 and the central control unit 100 to send. Next, with a corresponding input via the input unit 50 a current position of the module 10 and thus the goods 1 be entered and saved.

The energy supply 55 is preferably a rechargeable battery connected to a non-contact recharging coil. Alternatively, charging may be via a physical connection, such as a plug. The energy supply 55 is with all components of the module 10 connected, which require electrical energy, including the sensors 40 . 42 , the communication unit 30 , the input unit 50 , the processing unit 60 , the memory 70 , the signaler 80 and the output unit 90 ,

The processing unit 60 is in the embodiment shown as a processor 60 educated. The processor 60 processes the output signal of the communication unit 30 to perform a function. The other way around, the processor can also use the communication unit 30 drive. The processor can work with the memory 70 in order to store new information or data or to access or retrieve information or data stored therein. The information or data may be, for example, computer programs, commands or sensor measured values. The processor 60 may also process commands received from the communication unit 30 receives. Next, the processor can use the output unit 90 enable to display or output selected information based on executed commands. Furthermore, the processor 60 the sensors 40 . 42 to supply a signal. By the signal of the processor 60 become the sensors 40 . 42 causes the environmental parameter or a signal of the signal generator 80 to measure, and the detected data to the processor 60 issue. The processor 60 can be from the sensor 40 . 42 received data to process in the memory 70 be stored and that a signal, such as an alarm signal, the communication unit 30 and / or the output unit 90 is supplied when a predetermined threshold is exceeded or fallen below.

The memory 70 can be an identification number of the module 10 that the module 10 is assigned, save. Further, certain details of the goods 1 in the store 70 be saved. The identification number of the module can be requested by another module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 or the central control unit 100 be forwarded to this or this. The module 10 can be formed, the identification numbers within reach of the module 10 to determine. Further, upon request, the identification numbers of all within reach of the module 10 located modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 to the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 or to the central control unit 100 be sent. This allows all modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be clearly identified in the network.

The optional second sensor 42 is configured in the illustrated embodiment, signals of the signal generator 80 the further module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 to measure. In particular, the second sensor 42 a signal strength of the signal generator 80 the further module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 or the signal transmitter 180 the central control unit 100 to capture. Based on the second sensor 42 measured signal strength of the signal generator 80 can the processing unit 30 a distance to the other module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 or to the central control unit 100 determine.

In one embodiment, the module 10 and the module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 each a signal generator 80 , where by the signal generator 80 output signals can be according to the module 10 and the module 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 be coded. Due to the different coding of the signals of the signal generator 80 can the signals of the signalers 80 the modules 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 be differentiated from each other.

The processing unit 60 is capable of keeping the number within range of the module 10 located further modules 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 to determine. In addition, the processing unit 60 through the coded signals of the signal generator 80 or by the identification numbers of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 determine which modules 10 . 12 . 15 . 16 . 18 within range of the module 10 are located.

The output unit 90 may be configured as a display unit, such as a screen, at least one LED or a light. The output unit 90 may alternatively or additionally comprise a vibration system and / or an acoustic output unit. The input unit 50 and the output unit 90 can be united in a single touch-sensitive screen, thus incorporating the functions of the input unit 50 and the output unit 90 takes over.

The 3 shows a schematic representation of a central control unit 100 , The central control unit 100 is designed to be the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 to control and / or control, so that the goods 1 can be located and / or monitored. The central control unit 100 includes a housing 120 in which usually a communication device 130 with a transmitter 132 and a receiver, sensors 140 . 142 , an input unit 150 , a power supply 155 , a central processing unit 160 , a store 170 , a signal generator 180 and an output unit 190 are arranged. The central control unit 100 is a movable control unit in the embodiment shown 100 , In other embodiments, the central control unit 100 also be arranged stationarily in the camp.

The communication unit 130 the central control unit 100 is designed to communicate with each module 10 . 18 , which is within reach of the communication unit 130 the central control unit 100 located.

The optional input unit 150 allows a user to enter the memory 170 the central control unit 100 or in the processing unit 160 the central control unit 100 , The input at the input unit 150 can the communication unit 130 induce a message to the module 10 . 18 to send, for example, the message may include a command, a request or data. The input unit 150 may be a touch-sensitive screen, for example. The input at the central control unit 100 may alternatively or additionally also one with the central control unit 100 connected third-party medium (not shown), such as a computer, a smartphone or a tablet.

The energy supply 155 may be a rechargeable battery connected to a non-contact recharging coil. The energy supply 155 may alternatively be connected to a fixed supply network / power grid. The energy supply 155 is with all the components of the central control unit 100 connected, which require electrical energy, including the sensors 140 . 142 , the communication unit 130 , the input unit 150 , the processing unit 160 , the memory 170 , the signaler 180 and the output unit 190 ,

The processing unit 160 is in the embodiment shown as a processor 160 educated. The processor 160 processes the output signal of the communication unit 130 to perform a function. The processor can work with the memory 170 in order to store new information or data or to access or retrieve information or data stored therein. The information or data may be, for example, computer programs, commands or sensor measured values. The processor 160 may also process commands or indications that it receives from the input unit 150 receives. The processor 160 can also be through the sensors 40 . 42 Measured data or measured values, which he receives from the communication unit 130 receives. Next, the processor can use the output unit 190 Enable to display selected information based on processed data or measurements or based on executed commands. The processor 160 can be commands or requests for the modules 10 . 12 . 14 to the communication unit 130 forward the commands or requests to the communication unit 30 of the module 10 sends.

Optionally, the central control unit may have two or more sensors 140 . 142 respectively. The sensor 140 can be designed to detect a measured variable, which is the same measured variable that the sensor 40 of the module 10 to capture. For the type of sensor 140 be thus to the above comments on the sensor 140 directed. If the from the sensor 140 measured local quantity exceeds or falls below a threshold, this could, for example, have a negative impact on the stock 5 located goods 1 to have. To check if the metric is elsewhere in the camp 5 is too high or too low, the processing unit 160 by means of the communication unit 130 a command to the modules 10 . 18 send that to the sensors 40 the modules 10 . 18 Check how big the measured quantity is with the goods 1 is. The ones from the sensors 40 Measured variables are then transmitted via the communication units 30 and 130 back to the processing unit 160 sent which the measurement data of the sensors 40 processed and possibly an alarm signal to the output unit 190 outputs ..

The second sensor 142 the central control unit is configured in the illustrated embodiment, signals of the signal generator 80 of the module 10 to measure. In particular, the second sensor 142 a signal strength of the signal generator 80 of the module 10 to capture. Based on the second sensor 142 measured signal strength of the signal generator 180 can the processing unit 130 a distance to the module 10 determine.

The from the signaler 180 output signals can according to the central control unit 100 be coded. Due to the different coding of the signals of the signal generator 80 and 180 can the signals of the signalers 80 and 180 the modules 10 . 12 . 14 and the central control unit are distinguished from each other.

It should be noted at this point that, in some embodiments, the signalers 80 and 180 and the sensors 42 . 142 can be waived. For distance measurement, namely, the signals of the transmitter 32 . 132 be used by the recipients 34 . 134 can be measured. In this way, the signal strength of the transmitter 32 . 132 used to determine the distance between the modules 10 . 12 . 14 or the distance between the module 10 and the central control unit.

In embodiments in which the signal generator 80 and 180 as well as the sensors 42 and 142 are present, the signalers can 80 . 180 and sensors 42 . 142 extra for the distance determinations between the modules 10 . 12 . 14 with each other or between the module 10 and the central control unit 100 be provided. This can increase the accuracy of the distance determinations.

The output unit 190 may be configured as a display unit, such as a screen, at least one LED or a light. The output unit 190 may also include a vibration system and / or an acoustic output unit. The input unit 150 and the output unit 190 can be united in a touch-sensitive screen.

The 4 shows a schematic representation of a system for locating and monitoring a variety of goods 1 in the warehouse 5 , The system includes a variety of modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 as well as the central control unit 100 , The module 10 , the stationary module 12 , the module 14 , the module 16 and the module 18 the 4 all have the same structure as the one in the 2 shown module 10 ,

In the 4 is by means of a circle 210 the range of the communication unit 30 of the module 18 indicated. For the sake of clarity, it was assumed that the transmitter 32 and the receiver 34 the communication unit 30 of the module 18 an equal range 210 respectively. The ranges of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 and 18 are the same size in the embodiment shown, as they modules 10 . 12 . 14 , and 18 have the same structure and thus have the same components.

In the 4 is also by means of a bow 220 the range of the communication unit 130 the central control unit 100 indicated. For the sake of clarity, it was assumed that the transmitter 132 and the receiver 134 the communication unit 130 the central control unit 100 an equal range 220 respectively.

The 4 it can be seen that the modules 10 and 18 within reach 220 the communication unit 130 the central control unit 100 are located. The central control unit can therefore communicate directly with the modules 10 and 18 communicate. Next are the modules 14 within reach 210 the communication unit 30 of the module 18 , In the system shown 200 are the modules 14 and 18 therefore, capable of using the communication units 30 communicate directly with each other.

The modules 12 and 16 are out of reach 210 and 220 arranged. Therefore, the module can 18 only indirectly, ie via modules 14 with the modules 12 and 16 communicate. The central control unit 100 in turn, only about module 18 with the modules 14 communicate. A direct communication between the central control unit 100 or the module 18 and one of the modules 12 or 16 is not possible in the embodiment shown. The modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 and the central control unit 100 form a meshed network, so every module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 at least indirectly with each additional module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 can communicate. Indirect communication here means that between two communicating devices (module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 or central control unit 100 ) a third device (module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 or central control unit 100 ) communicates the communication. The communication unit 30 of the module 18 is therefore designed to receive a message from the module 14 to the central control unit 100 forward. In addition, the communication unit 13 of the module 18 designed to receive a message from the central control unit 100 to the module 14 forward.

• - Bestimmen der Abstände zu den Modulen 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 in Reichweite,
• - Weiterleiten der bestimmten Abstände an die zentrale Steuereinheit 100,
• - Durchführen von Messungen durch den Sensor 40, 42 oder die Sensoren 40, 42,
• - Weiterleiten von Daten oder Messwerten an die zentrale Steuereinheit 100,
• - Bestimmen, welche Module sich in Reichweite des Moduls befinden,
• - Weiterleiten einer Nachricht, eines Befehls, von Daten oder Messwerten an ein Modul 12, 14, 16, 18, welches sich außerhalb der Reichweite der zentralen Steuereinheit 100 befindet, aber innerhalb der Reichweite des Moduls befindet,
• - Bestimmen der Anzahl von Modulen 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 in Reichweite des Moduls,
• - Ausgeben eines Warnsignals, falls eine bestimmte Bedingung eintritt, und/oder
• - Austauschen von Daten oder Messwerten mit einem anderen Modul 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 in Reichweite des Moduls.

The message of the central control unit 100 to one of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 For example, you can include one or more of the following commands that contain the appropriate module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 should lead through:

• - Determining the distances to the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 within reach,
• - Forwarding the specific distances to the central control unit 100 .
• - Perform measurements by the sensor 40 . 42 or the sensors 40 . 42 .
• - Forwarding of data or measured values to the central control unit 100 .
• Determining which modules are within range of the module,
• - Forward a message, a command, data or readings to a module 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 which is out of the reach of the central control unit 100 is located but within the reach of the module,
• - Determine the number of modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 within reach of the module,
• - Issuing a warning signal if a certain condition occurs, and / or
• - Replace data or readings with another module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 within reach of the module.

The list is merely an example list of possible commands of the central control unit 100 to the module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 , Other commands are also possible.

About the input unit 50 the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 can be a position of the module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be entered in the room. For example, the position can have two or three space coordinates in the warehouse 5 include. Using the entered position of the module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 can change the positions of other modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 based on the relative positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be determined to each other. The determination of the positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 is preferably done by the processing work 160 the central control unit 100 , but also by a processing unit 60 one of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be performed.

In one variant is a module 12 stationary in the warehouse 5 arranged. For example, the module 12 by means of the fastening means 20 be attached to a wall of the camp (s. 4 ). Through the fixed, known spatial coordinates of this module 12 and the detected positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 among each other is the system 200 capable of determining the positions of the moving goods 1 to be determined at any time. If the central control unit 100 Fixed in the warehouse can be fixed to the module 12 be waived. However, the fixed module can 12 also only to forward messages or to increase the range of the system 200 be provided.

Next can via the input unit 150 the central control unit 100 a position of the central control unit 100 be entered in the room. For example, the position can have two or three space coordinates in the warehouse 5 include. Based on the entered position of the central control unit 100 can change the positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 using the relative positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be determined to each other. The determination of the positions of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 is preferably done by the processing work 160 the central control unit 100 , but also by a processing unit 60 one of the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be performed.

Overall, with the embodiment described above, each module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 So by the signal strength of each located in range modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 its relative distance to other modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 determine. By using, for example, triangulation, the relative positions of the respective modules can be achieved by combining several of these distance information 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 calculate each other and thus determine the structure of the entire network. Are the absolute positions of the individual modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 known, the absolute positions of the other modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 can be calculated from these data. Furthermore, via fix mounted sensor modules 12 in the room (eg on walls) whose position is known in every situation, all other sensor modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 be located within reach. By the distance measurement as well as the direct connection in a meshed net, are the modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 able with other modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 to communicate. This makes sense, for example, for dangerous goods that are not allowed to stand side by side. There are two endangered goods 1 next to each other, can those at these goods 1 attached modules 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 warn each other or an alarm to the central control unit 100 send. Furthermore, a warning signal, such as a loud sound or bright light or pulsating light, can also be transmitted via the output unit 90 be issued.

• - Befestigen des zuvor beschriebenen Moduls 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 an der beweglichen Ware 1, welche sich in einem Lager 5 befindet,
• - Übermitteln einer Nachricht des Moduls 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 an ein weiteres Modul 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 und/oder die zentrale Steuereinheit 100 und/oder
• - Empfangen einer Nachricht des weiteren Moduls 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 und/oder einer zentralen Steuereinheit 100.

In addition, the present invention provides a method for locating or monitoring a product 1 proposed. The method comprises at least the following steps:

• - Attaching the module described above 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 on the moving goods 1 who are in a camp 5 is,
• - Submit a message of the module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 to another module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 and / or the central control unit 100 and or
• Receiving a message of the further module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 and / or a central control unit 100 ,

Features only in connection with the module 10 . 12 . 14 . 16 . 18 and / or the central control unit 100 and / or the system 200 can be combined with features that were mentioned only in connection with the procedure, and vice versa.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Would

2

palette

5

warehouse

10

module

12

stationary module

14

module

16

module

18

module

20

fastener

22

casing

30

communication unit

32

transmitter

34

receiver

40

sensor

42

sensor

50

input unit

55

power supply

60

processing unit

70

Storage

80

signaler

90

output unit

100

central control unit

120

casing

130

communicator

132

transmitter

134

receiver

140

sensor

142

sensor

150

input unit

155

power supply

160

processing unit

170

Storage

180

signaler

190

output unit

200

system

210

reach

220

reach

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US9552569 B1 [0003]
• US 2016/0307154 A1 [0004]

Claims (14)

Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) for locating or monitoring an object (1) comprising: - Attachment means for securing the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to the object (1) and - A communication unit (30) having a transmitter (32) and a receiver (34), wherein the communication unit (30) is configured to communicate with at least one further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18), which is within range the communication unit (30) of the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) is located. Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) after Claim 1 wherein the communication unit (30) is configured to - receive a message from the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or a central control unit (100) and / or - send a message to the further module (10 , 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or to the central control unit (100). Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) after one Claim 2 wherein the communication unit (30) is configured to transmit data and / or measured values to the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or the central control unit (100) in the presence of a specific condition. Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) after Claim 3 comprising at least one first sensor (40) for determining an environmental parameter of the object (1), such as humidity, pressure, temperature or acceleration, wherein the determined condition is the undershooting or exceeding of a predetermined limit value of a measured value measured by the first sensor (40) , and the message contains at least the measured value or the measured data of the first sensor (40). Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to one of Claims 3 or 4 comprising an input unit (50) connected to the communication unit (30), wherein the communication unit (30) is designed according to an input made at the input unit (50) for transmitting the data and / or measured values to the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or to the central control unit (100). Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to one of Claims 3 to 5 wherein the communication unit (30) is configured to send data or measurements to the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or the central control unit (100) upon receipt of a request or command. Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to one of Claims 2 to 6 in which the communication unit (30) is configured to forward a message of the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to the central control unit (100) and / or send a message from the central control unit (100) to the further module ( 10, 12, 14, 16, 18). Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a second sensor (42) for detecting a signal strength of a signal sent by the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18); and a processing unit (60) which is designed to determine a distance to the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) on the basis of the signal strength measured by the second sensor (42). Module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) has a memory (70) in which properties of the object (1) can be stored, wherein the transmitter (32) and / or a signal generator (80) and / or an output unit (90) of the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) is configured to issue a warning message if the object (1) has a specific one Property, in particular combustible, radioactive, explosive or flammable. A system (200) for locating or monitoring a plurality of objects (1) - a plurality of modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) according to the preceding claims, each adapted to communicate within range with at least one of the other modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18); and a central control unit (100) having a central communication unit (130) and a central processing unit (160), the central communication unit (130) being configured to communicate with at least one of the modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18 ). System (200) after Claim 10 , further comprising a stationary module (12) with a known position, wherein at least one processing unit (60) of one of the modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) or the central control unit (100) is designed to control the positions of the modules ( 10, 12, 14, 16, 18) with respect to the stationary module (12). System (200) according to one of Claims 10 or 11 wherein at least one module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) comprises an input unit (50) via which an absolute position of this module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) can be entered, and at least one processing unit (60 160, 160) of one of the modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) or the central control unit (100) is configured, the positions of the modules with respect to the absolute position of the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to determine. System (200) according to one of Claims 10 to 12 , characterized in that the central control unit (100) and the modules (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) form a meshed network (200). A method of locating or monitoring an object (1), comprising: - securing the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to one of Claims 1 to 13 on an object (1), - transmitting a message of the module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to another module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or the central control unit (100) and / or - receiving a message from the further module (10, 12, 14, 16, 18) and / or a central control unit (100).

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