DE102018103664B4 - Warehouse logistics data determination system for the indirect determination of data of general cargo, method for operating a warehouse logistics data determination system and use of energy self-sufficient sensor units on the respective general cargo - Google Patents

Abstract

Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) set up for the indirect determination of data, in particular position data, from stationary at pre-definable positions in a warehouse (1) to piece goods (2) to be stored, in particular heavy load piece goods, based on the determination of a corresponding piece goods-specific relative position of a gripper unit (3.1) Gripping and moving the respective piece goods (2), the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) having an arithmetic unit (11) and a position detection unit (13) connected thereto for detecting the position of the gripper unit (3.1) and also a first communication module (12) that can be coupled to it set up for wireless communication via at least one communication protocol; characterized in that the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) comprises a plurality of energy self-sufficient sensor units (20) each set up for assembly on the piece goods (2), the respective sensor unit (20) having an energy store (21) and a second communication module (22) set up for wireless Has communication with the first communication module (12) via at least one communication protocol, and wherein the respective sensor unit (20) has a motion sensor (24) and can be activated based on a signal from the motion sensor (24) with respect to transmission of data to the first communication module (12) , namely motion-activatable by switching from a first, energy-optimized passive mode to a second, transmitting mode.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a warehouse logistics data determination system for the indirect determination of data of general cargo. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating a warehouse logistics data determination system and the use of energy-independent sensor units on the respective piece goods. In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For logistical tasks, it is advantageous if as much data as possible, in particular also position data, is known regarding the goods to be relocated or transported. General cargo, in particular steel / metal coils, is often moved individually. Comprehensive data on the individual piece goods is of interest not only to find the respective piece goods, but also to determine the destination, time and place of loading or possibly necessary post-treatment of the goods as such. The data of these general cargo should also be able to be recorded individually if possible. A warehouse management system that is practical in terms of handling and reliable in terms of general cargo data is therefore desired in particular, if possible without great manual effort.

Warehouse management systems are already in use. For example the DE 198 33 240 A1 , DE 10 2006 057 643 A1 , DE 10 2009 016 366 A1 , DE 10 2006 053 528 A1 , EP 2 629 899 B1 describe individual aspects of such systems. Against this background, there is a need for improved practicability, on the one hand, and a need for high operational reliability and the most flexible usability, in particular for general cargo in the form of metal coils.

Other publications that can be mentioned are: DE 603 16 963 T2 ; ROIDL, M. et al .: Performance availability and real-time capability in intelligent load carrier systems. Logistics Journal: Proceedings, 2016, pp. 1-17 .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object is to provide a device and a method with which the storage or the warehouse management, in particular of general cargo warehouses, can be facilitated. Another task is to implement a warehouse management system in such a way that the highest possible degree of self-sufficiency, operational safety and / or flexibility in use can be achieved.

At least one of these tasks is solved by a warehouse logistics data determination system according to claim 1 and a method or a use according to the subordinate method claims 9 and 10. Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in the respective subclaims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another, unless this is explicitly denied.

A warehouse logistics data determination system is provided for the indirect determination of data, in particular position data of fixed goods stored or to be stored at predefined positions in a warehouse, in particular heavy goods, e.g. steel coils or metal coils with a mass of up to 40 t, based on the determination of a corresponding one Piece goods-specific relative position of a gripper unit set up for gripping and moving the respective piece goods, in particular set up for gripping from above, from the same horizontal position as the piece goods to be gripped, the storage logistics data determination system being set up to process the position of the gripper unit, in particular a computing unit and an associated (first) position detection unit Horizontal position in or related to (relative) coordinates of the camp, and a first communication module that can be coupled or connected to it, configured for wireless Communication via at least one communication protocol, in particular bluetooth and / or zigbee and / or near field (NFC) and / or WiFi and / or NB-IoT communication protocol, which first communication module preferably for mounting / fastening / fixing on the Gripper unit is formed.
According to the invention, it is proposed that the warehouse logistics data determination system comprises a plurality of energy self-sufficient (location-independent or mobile usable), wirelessly communicating sensor units set up for mounting on the piece goods, the respective sensor unit having an energy store (in particular set up for energy self-sufficiency of the sensor unit for at least two to six months) and a second communication module set up for wireless communication with the first communication module via at least one communication protocol, in particular bluetooth and / or zigbee and / or near field (NFC) and / or WiFi and / or NB-IoT communication protocol, and wherein the each sensor unit has a motion sensor and can be motion-activated based on a signal of the motion sensor with respect to communication / transmission of (piece goods) data to the first Communication module can be activated by switching from a first, energy-optimized passive mode to a second, data-transmitting mode.

This provides a simple way of identifying and tracking the piece goods, particularly in the case of bulky piece goods, in particular also in terms of inventory or storage capacity. This can e.g. manual reading of bar codes or similar visual labels can also be replaced, at least in part. This also provides an indirect position determination in a simple manner, based on the known position of the gripper unit. The respective sensor unit does not have to transmit position data. The sensor unit can optionally also have a second position detection unit set up to detect the position of the sensor unit, e.g. to determine a height position. At least the horizontal position can be determined indirectly via the gripper unit.

The present invention enables warehouse management in a self-sufficient manner in that (position) data are determined indirectly via movement-activated sensor units which are in communication with a gripper unit which grips the piece goods when they are moved or relocated in the warehouse.

The technology according to the invention is also based on a concept in which sensors or pure data transmitters are attached to the load (piece goods), which activate themselves only under predefined conditions, in particular in the event of a change in height, and in communication with a (in particular mounted on the gripper unit) Communication module with respect to the respective gripper / crane occur, in particular for the purpose of unilateral or unidirectional data transmission to the crane or to its communication module.

The general cargo data can e.g. mark the place of origin and / or destination of the piece goods, or e.g. the material (e.g. the steel grade), or the manufacturer, or the buyer.

The warehouse logistics data determination system can also be generally referred to as a warehouse logistics data system or as a warehouse logistics data collection system or a warehouse logistics data supply system or a warehouse logistics data delivery system.

The gripper unit can e.g. be designed as a heavy-duty crane, which can move the warehouse in particular according to predefined warehouse rows (matrix; rows, columns), that is to say based on predefined horizontal coordinates (predefined x and / or y coordinates). The corresponding possible x / y coordinates as available storage spaces for the respective piece goods can be stored in a storage database (data storage) of the system.

The position detection unit with respect to the gripper unit (first position detection unit) can preferably be based on laser distance measurement, at least with respect to the x and y axes, but optionally or alternatively also on a PLC motor control, on triangulation based on signals from the sensor units, on GPS Technology and / or on magnetic field technology (or respective sensors). The magnetic field technology (in particular magnetometer) can be implemented in an advantageous manner, in particular in the case of storage systems with rails (displacement of the crane on rails). Laser technology provides the advantage of high flexibility and system independence.

Optionally, the first position detection unit can also include measurement technology or sensors from the group ultrasound, infrared, in particular also with respect to the z-axis.

The general cargo can in particular be any object that is positioned in isolated positions, in particular heavy-duty general cargo, heavy-duty raw material, e.g. a steel coil or a metal coil. The present invention is not restricted to heavy loads, although special advantages can result in the case of heavy loads, in particular due to the manner in which they are stored. However, the general cargo can e.g. also be a straw bale wrapped in foil on a predefinable, geometrically recorded storage area (field, hall).

According to an advantageous exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system is set up for autonomous piece goods data acquisition, in particular position data determination in response to movement of the piece goods based on a communication signal comprising piece goods data of the respective movement-activated sensor unit of the piece goods gripped by the gripper unit. This also provides comparatively high flexibility.

The respective sensor unit can have a holding device for fixing the sensor unit to the piece goods, in particular a holding device set up for fixing the sensor unit to a steel coil. The holding device can also be adapted with regard to the material of the piece goods, in particular metal. For example, the holding device comprises at least one permanent magnet. The holding device can have a contact surface that is geometrically adapted to the piece goods, in particular a flat, flat and / or concave contact surface set up for Flat contact of a flat, flat and / or a convex surface of the piece goods.

The sensor units can e.g. are attached to the piece goods by at least one magnet and / or at least one hook, a clip or a belt or similar holding device.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the movement sensor of the respective sensor unit is set up to detect a movement or change in movement at least with respect to the vertical axis (z), in particular also with respect to at least one horizontal axis (x, y), in particular with respect to both horizontal axes. This enables activation in response to lifting or deactivation in response to depositing the piece goods.

According to one embodiment, the respective motion sensor is based on GPS technology and / or on magnetic field technology. The use of GPS sensors can in particular also facilitate the detection of a height position or enable it in a particularly precise manner.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the respective movement sensor comprises an air pressure sensor (in particular a barometer) and / or an acceleration sensor (in particular an accelerometer). The use of an air pressure sensor can ensure high operational safety, in particular also with regard to a shift in the vertical direction (z), and provides a high degree of self-sufficiency regardless of the design of the bearing. The use of an acceleration sensor facilitates the detection of movements in the respective spatial axes. The use of a magnetic sensor is particularly useful for detecting changes in the magnetic field, especially when moving metallic objects or piece goods (e.g. coils, metal coils). Using magnetic field technology, relative movements and relative positions of the piece goods can be recorded in a convenient and reliable manner.

According to one embodiment, the respective motion sensor is based on at least one sensor technology from the following group: air pressure technology, GPS technology, magnetic field technology, acceleration sensor technology. In particular, a combination of these technologies can further improve the resilience of the system and data security.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the respective sensor unit, apart from the motion sensor (or apart from motion sensor technology), is designed as a pure data transmitter unit without further sensors, i.e. as a unilateral transmitting data transmitter unit. This can increase the degree of self-sufficiency. The respective sensor unit does not necessarily have to record data, but can only transmit data when activated. In particular, this can also optimize energy consumption. Communication can also be done bilaterally. However, it has been shown that it can make sense to restrict oneself to unilateral transmission, in particular to minimize complexity and energy consumption.

It has been shown that, in particular with very large loads, i.e. only low accelerations, detection via air pressure can offer advantages compared to detection based on acceleration values. Based on the air pressure, a change in altitude (Δz) can also be recorded if the general cargo is only raised very slowly, i.e. with almost no noticeable acceleration. At least in a redundant arrangement, an air pressure sensor can therefore further improve system security or measurement data quality.

Dispensing with GPS technology, or at least sensory redundancy with GPS technology, can also have signaling advantages, depending on the arrangement of the bearing. Depending on the type of piece goods, the warehouse can be shielded by a more or less massive hall, or the piece goods themselves shield the sensor unit. This could affect GPS signals. In particular, the air pressure technology can ensure a consistently good measurement quality and data security regardless of the design of the bearing and regardless of the manner and location of the sensor unit on the piece goods. Air pressure technology can also be used regardless of the type of piece goods and therefore provides great flexibility.

The position detection unit with respect to the gripper unit (i.e. the first position detection unit) can also be based on air pressure technology, e.g. include a barometer. The air pressure technology is preferably combined with a laser technology, in particular also with respect to the z-axis, i.e. measurement redundancy is provided on the gripper unit. The position of the gripper unit can be determined and optionally also verified using the corresponding laser distance measuring unit (s), in particular also in the form of a plausibility check. Ultimately, this redundancy also enables calibration of the air pressure technology.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system set up to record the relative height position of the respective (seized) piece goods relative to the gripper unit for indirect determination of the position (data) of the piece goods. This provides a comprehensive characterization of the piece goods, especially with regard to a current height position. Laser technology (distance measurement) can also be used for this purpose. The detection of the height position also enables the condition of piece goods to be detected in a raised position, in particular in a hanging, floating arrangement under the gripper unit.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the respective sensor unit is set up to transmit the data in a second mode and / or as a function of a height position in accordance with a predefinable transmission pattern. This can allow conclusions to be drawn about the arrangement of the piece goods relative to the gripper unit.

According to an advantageous exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system is set up for a warehouse with at least one predefined longitudinal axis path and / or with at least one predefined transverse axis path in each case for arranging the piece goods according to a predefined / predefinable grid, in particular along rails or routes. Structuring the warehouse in this way provides the advantage of simple assignment of the respective general cargo to individual storage locations, particularly in the case of very bulky general cargo.

According to an advantageous exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system is set up for a warehouse with general cargo, in which the respective general cargo (in particular floating, hanging on the gripper unit, for example in ropes, chains or bars) is in the same horizontal position as the gripper unit or in a horizontal position with a predefined horizontal deviation Horizontal position of the gripper unit can be shifted by means of the gripper unit. The invention is also based on the concept of simplifying the storage by virtue of the fact that a horizontal position can be determined indirectly via the horizontal position of the gripper unit due to a shift of the gripper unit and piece goods, in a predefined horizontal relative position to one another.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the position detection unit is set up for continuous detection of the position of the gripper unit (tracking). This can also make it easier to trace individual storage locations.

According to an advantageous exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system comprises at least one input box and / or at least one output box in each case for the removal or reception of the respective sensor unit when the respective piece goods are imported into the warehouse or when the respective piece goods are exported out of the warehouse, the each box is preferably set up to charge an / the energy store of the respective sensor unit. In this way, a type of circuit can be provided for the sensor units, in particular in such a way that the sensor units can be provided on the input side with a sufficiently charged energy store.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system comprises at least one workstation / workstation set up for assigning the respective sensor unit to the respective piece goods and set up for resetting the respective sensor unit and set up for manual or at least partially automated detection of piece goods import on an input side and / or piece goods export an exit side of the warehouse. The workstation can also be used to facilitate a systematic linking of the sensor unit and general cargo, in the manner of systematically marking the inventory.

According to an advantageous exemplary embodiment, the warehouse logistics data determination system is designed as a warehouse-internal online localization system (LION), in particular set up for use in a warehouse by a manner that communicates autonomously and independently of high-performance communication networks (e.g. mobile radio networks). In this way, the degree of self-sufficiency can be further increased, in particular independently of GPS technology.

The LION warehouse logistics data determination system can be optimized with regard to warehouse data organization in a closed, delimited warehouse, e.g. a warehouse in a hall or a warehouse that is difficult to access for technical or operational safety reasons, especially thanks to motion sensors based on air pressure technology.

The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a method for operating a warehouse logistics data determination system for the indirect determination of data, in particular position data of piece goods to be stored in a fixed position at predefined positions in a warehouse, in particular heavy load piece goods, for example steel coils or metal coils with a mass of up to 40 t, by means of a plurality of energy self-sufficient, wirelessly communicating sensor units each in an arrangement mounted on the piece goods, in particular in each case in use as a data transmitter unit in a previously described warehouse logistics data determination system, whereby the respective sensor unit transmits or records and transmits data, in particular comprising (relative) position data relating to the respective piece goods, to a gripper unit that grips and relocates the piece goods or to a corresponding communication module, with a known (absolute) position the gripper unit, based on wireless communication via at least one communication protocol, the data, in particular position data, of the respective piece goods being determined indirectly from the transmitted data, in particular based on position data of the gripper unit, and wherein the respective sensor unit for the transmission is autonomously motion-activated (or switches itself in response to a change in the state of motion), in particular based on a signal from a motion sensor of the respective sensor unit, and in response to a (new) motion from a first, energ The optimized passive mode switches or is switched to a second, data-transmitting mode, and / or is switched or switched in response to immobility or to a movement missing from the second mode in the first mode over a predefinable period of time. This results in the aforementioned advantages.

In particular, it has been shown that the following operating mode is advantageous: the respective sensor unit is only activated (in particular woken up from a sleep mode) when the gripper unit has already moved the piece goods, and when the sensor unit has already detected a first movement and also a further movement as Can capture confirmation of the first movement. This two-stage recording in the form of a plausibility check has energetic advantages. In particular, the sensor unit can be set up to carry out a query regarding a sensor detection in the passive mode at predefined call times, for example every one to five seconds, for example an acceleration, in particular an acceleration in at least one predefined direction (x, y, z) and / or an acceleration above at least one predefined or predefinable minimum threshold value. If the movement has been registered (be it only once or be it several times), the sensor unit automatically activates the movement in the active (second) mode, in which, in particular, unilateral data transmission takes place. Data acquisition in the sense of data reception from outside does not necessarily have to take place, therefore one can speak of unilateral data transmission (in particular unilateral to the gripper unit or to the communication module of the gripper unit).

According to a variant, a time interval is predefined, in which the sensor unit has to detect a movement at least twice before switching to the active (transmitting) mode. This acquisition time interval can e.g. predefined to two or three seconds. Optionally, can be sent / transmitted automatically as soon as a movement is detected. If there is no movement, you can switch to sleep mode automatically.

According to a variant, a time interval is predefined in which the sensor unit carries out the data transmission. This transmission time interval can e.g. predefined to one or more seconds, or even only a few milliseconds, and also limited by an upper threshold, e.g. five (milli) seconds, especially to prevent excessive energy consumption.

The warehouse logistics data determination system is preferably set up to differentiate between at least three types of data (information) and to process or archive these types of data differently, two of the types of information data being able to be detected or provided independently of the respective sensor unit. First information data relate to the position of the gripper unit and can be detected and provided by means of the corresponding (first) position detection unit. Second information data relate to the arrangement and distribution of the individual piece goods in the warehouse. This data can be maintained or updated by the third information data, which third information data relate to the movement state of the sensor unit (and are provided by the sensor unit) and together with the position data of the moving piece goods, corresponding to (or convertible to) position data of the piece goods moving gripper unit, allow an image of all piece goods in the warehouse. The gripper unit can also shift a plurality of piece goods.

The data transmission can in particular comprise a transmission of identification data, namely identification data for identifying the respective sensor unit and / or the respective piece goods. The corresponding data can be stored in a data memory of the sensor unit, which data memory e.g. can be fed manually or automatically, e.g. when the sensor unit is serviced, charged or reassigned. This data feed into the sensor unit can take place independently of the warehouse logistics data determination system.

The acquisition of data can also be limited to the acquisition of a movement or the beginning or the end of a movement. In other words: the respective one Sensor unit does not necessarily have to record and transmit position data, in particular since the (relative) position of the respective piece good can also (exclusively or additionally redundantly) be determined indirectly via the known (absolute) position of the gripper unit.

Optionally, a (return) switch to the first mode (energy-optimized mode) can also take place depending on a lack of connectivity to the communication module of the gripper unit. In other words, the respective sensor unit can have a connectivity sensor and switch to the first mode if there is no connectivity, or switch to the second (transmitting) mode when connectivity is newly established. The connectivity query can be carried out in addition to the motion query, optionally also in the form of a plausibility check. The combined query can ensure a high quality of the evaluation. In particular, even with very tight storage, it can be avoided that the correct general cargo is not analyzed.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by using a plurality of energy self-sufficient, wirelessly communicating sensor units in a warehouse logistics data determination system, in particular in a warehouse logistics data determination system described above, in each case for the indirect determination of data, in particular (relative) position data relating to at least one piece goods of a warehouse, by transmission of Data, in particular (relative) position data of the respective sensor unit attached to the piece goods to a gripper unit gripping and relocating the respective piece goods or to a communication module moved with the piece goods, in particular attached to the gripper unit, with known (absolute) position of the gripper unit, based on wireless Communication via at least one communication protocol in a wireless network, the respective sensor unit being motion-activated from a first, energy-optimized passive mode into a second, data center switching mode switches, especially unilaterally transmitting. This results in the aforementioned advantages. The transmission can also take place in short intervals, in particular energy-optimized in transmission intervals, significantly shorter than a switching time interval that can be defined with regard to switching, e.g. Transmit each for a few milliseconds, every second. In the event of (movement) stoppage or immobility of the piece goods (lack of displacement), a (return) switching to the passive first mode can take place again, in particular after a predefinable switching time interval, e.g. after one to three seconds.

The description can be concluded by the following summary. For logistical tasks, it is advantageous if as much data as possible, in particular also position data, is known regarding the goods to be relocated or transported. General cargo, in particular steel / metal coils, is often moved individually. The data of these general cargo should also be able to be recorded individually if possible. A warehouse management system that is practical in terms of handling and reliable in terms of general cargo data is therefore desired in particular, if possible without great manual effort. The present invention provides a system by means of which warehouse management is made possible in a self-sufficient manner, in particular by (position) data being determined indirectly via motion-activated sensor units which are in communication with a gripper unit which grips the piece goods when it is moved or moved in the warehouse .

Figure list

• 1, 2 jeweils in einer Draufsicht in schematischer Darstellung ein Lagerlogistikdatenbestimmungssystem gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 3A, 3B jeweils in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung eine Sensoreinheit eingerichtet zur Verwendung in einem Lagerlogistikdatenbestimmungssystem gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 4 in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung eine Sensoreinheit in am Stückgut montierter Anordnung zur Verwendung in einem Lagerlogistikdatenbestimmungssystem gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 5A, 5B jeweils in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung eine Greifereinheit ohne und mit aufgenommenem Stückgut für ein Lagerlogistikdatenbestimmungssystem gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel; und
• 6 in schematischer Darstellung eine Interaktion unter einzelnen Komponenten eines Lagerlogistikdatenbestimmungssystems gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel.

The invention is described in more detail in the following drawing figures, reference being made to the other drawing figures for reference signs which are not explicitly described in a respective drawing figure. Show it:

• 1 , 2nd each in a top view in a schematic representation of a warehouse logistics data determination system according to an embodiment;
• 3A , 3B each in a side view in a schematic representation, a sensor unit set up for use in a warehouse logistics data determination system according to an embodiment;
• 4th a side view in a schematic representation of a sensor unit in an assembly mounted on the piece goods for use in a warehouse logistics data determination system according to an embodiment;
• 5A , 5B each in a side view in a schematic representation of a gripper unit with and without picked up piece goods for a warehouse logistics data determination system according to an embodiment; and
• 6 a schematic representation of an interaction between individual components of a warehouse logistics data determination system according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In 1 is a warehouse 1 for a wide range of piece goods 2nd shown, in particular heavy goods, such as steel coils or metal coils. The warehouse 1 is according to a grid 4th structured, in particular by several longitudinal axis paths 4.1 and cross axis paths 4.2 , especially each designed as a rail or route or relocation route. The warehouse 1 extends in the longitudinal and transverse directions x, y, the cargo being shifted in particular in a height direction z. A crane 3rd or the like lifting device has a gripper unit 3.1 on. There is a communication module on it 12th (first communication module) and a position detection unit 13 (first position detection unit) with laser distance measuring unit 13.1 arranged.

A warehouse logistics data determination system 10th includes a variety of sensor units 20th , in particular in each case in the form of a data transmitter unit. There is also a computing unit 11 provided for data processing in communication with the communication module 12th and / or the position detection unit 13 stands. An entry box 15 and an exit box 17th can be used in conjunction with an optional workstation 19th (optionally replaceable by the computing unit 11 ) the management of the data or the sensor units 20th to ensure.

In 2nd is on one of the steel coils 2nd an example of a sensor unit 20th shown in assembled order. The crane 3rd is with the gripper unit 3.1 from a longitudinal axis path further out 4.1 ( 1 ) in the vicinity of a longitudinal axis path lying further inside 4.1 ( 2nd ) has been relocated.

In 3A is a first page of the respective sensor unit 20th shown. A housing 27 has an opening 27.1 on which a hook or a bracket 26.2 a holding device 26 can be attached. The holding device 26 includes a magnet unit 26.1 , by means of which the sensor unit 20th can be additionally secured. In the middle of the side surface of the housing is an optical display unit 28 arranged, in particular comprising an LED light source. The display unit is connected to at least one of the further components of the sensor unit 20th , in particular also in connection with a communication module 22 .

In 3B is another side of the respective sensor unit 20th shown. The following components are indicated: energy storage 21 , Communication module 22 (second communication module), position detection unit 23 (second position detection unit), motion sensor 24th , Data storage 25th . The motion sensor 24th can comprise at least one sensor from the following group: air pressure sensor 24.1 , Acceleration sensor 24.2 , another sensor 24.3 , in particular GPS, magnetic field, infrared and / or laser sensor.

In 4th is one in general cargo 2nd attached holding element 2.1 shown, for example in the form of a band or tension belt or strap, on which the respective sensor unit 20th by means of the hook 26.2 can be attached.

In 5A an empty run is illustrated. The gripper unit 3.1 didn't raise a load. By means of the sensor 13.1 , in particular laser distance measuring unit or ultrasound or infrared sensor, can be determined or verified whether a piece good has been picked up or whether it is an empty run.

In 5B is a gripper unit 3.1 shown with recorded general cargo. The sensor unit 20th is switched to the transmitting mode and transmits data to the gripper unit 3.1 arranged communication module 12th .

In 6 is the camp 1 shown in a schematic representation, the communication module 12th the gripper unit 3.1 via a communication node 29 , in particular AccessPoint, data on a mobile communication device 30th , especially smartphone. On the communication device 30th can via the respective sensor unit 20th determined data are displayed, for example on a crane bridge, or on the way for a person examining the inventory.

The invention can also be summarized as follows: By activating the movement of energy-self-sufficient sensor units attached to piece goods for data transmission, data acquisition relating to the piece goods being moved can be simplified, in particular in that the respective sensor unit switches between at least two modes in a movement-activated manner and transmits data to a gripper unit, in particular by near field communication , especially unilateral. With this system, data is only exchanged if there is a relocation or handling of general cargo. On the one hand, this provides a reduction in the amount of data to be transmitted, on the other hand, it also provides high energy efficiency and sustainable use of the available energy.

Reference list

1

camp

2nd

General cargo, especially heavy cargo, e.g. Steel coils, metal coils

2.1

Holding element, e.g. Strap or lashing strap or strap

3rd

Crane or the like lifting device

3.1

Gripper unit

4th

Grid

4.1

Longitudinal axis path, especially rail or route or relocation path

4.2

Cross-axis path, especially rail or route or relocation path

10th

Warehouse logistics data determination system

11

Arithmetic unit

12th

Communication module of the gripper unit (first communication module)

13

Position detection unit with respect to the gripper unit (first position detection unit)

13.1

Laser distance measuring unit, in particular 3-axis laser distance measuring unit

15

Entrance box

17th

Exit box

19th

Workstation

20th

Sensor unit, in particular in the form of a data transmitter unit

21

Energy storage

22

Communication module of the sensor unit (second communication module)

23

Position detection unit with respect to sensor unit (second position detection unit)

24th

Motion sensor

24.1

Air pressure sensor

24.2

Acceleration sensor

24.3

additional sensor, especially GPS, magnetic field, infrared, laser

25th

Data storage

26

Holding device

26.1

Magnet unit

26.2

hook

27

casing

27.1

opening

28

optical display unit, in particular comprising an LED light source

29

Communication nodes, especially AccessPoint

30th

mobile communication device, in particular smartphone

x, y, z

Longitudinal direction, transverse direction, height direction

Claims (10)

Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) set up for the indirect determination of data, in particular position data, from stationary at pre-definable positions in a warehouse (1) to piece goods (2) to be stored, in particular heavy load piece goods, based on the determination of a corresponding piece goods-specific relative position of a gripper unit (3.1) Gripping and moving the respective piece goods (2), the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) having an arithmetic unit (11) and a position detection unit (13) connected thereto for detecting the position of the gripper unit (3.1) and also a first communication module (12) that can be coupled to it set up for wireless communication via at least one communication protocol; characterized in that the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) comprises a plurality of energy self-sufficient sensor units (20) each set up for mounting on the piece goods (2), the respective sensor unit (20) having an energy store (21) and a second communication module (22) set up for wireless Has communication with the first communication module (12) via at least one communication protocol, and wherein the respective sensor unit (20) has a motion sensor (24) and can be activated based on a signal from the motion sensor (24) with respect to transmission of data to the first communication module (12) , namely motion-activatable by switching from a first, energy-optimized passive mode to a second, transmitting mode. Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to Claim 1 , wherein the movement sensor (24) of the respective sensor unit (20) is set up to detect a movement or change in movement at least with respect to the vertical axis (z), in particular also with respect to at least one horizontal axis (x, y), in particular with respect to both horizontal axes (x , y); and / or wherein the respective sensor unit (20) is designed as a unilaterally transmitting data transmitter unit. Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the respective movement sensor (24) comprises an air pressure sensor (24.1) and / or an acceleration sensor (24.2); and / or wherein the respective motion sensor (24) is based on at least one sensor technology from the following group based: air pressure technology, GPS technology, magnetic field technology, acceleration sensors. Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) is set up to detect the relative height position of the respective piece goods (2) relative to the gripper unit (3.1) for indirect determination of the position or position data of the piece goods (2); and / or wherein the respective sensor unit (20) is set up to transmit the data in the second mode and / or as a function of a height position (z) according to a predefinable transmission pattern. Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) is set up for a warehouse (1) with at least one predefined longitudinal axis path (4.1) and / or with at least one predefined transverse axis path (4.2) in each case for arranging the piece goods according to the predefinable Grid (4), in particular along rails or routes. Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, set up for a warehouse (1) with piece goods (2), in which the respective piece goods (2) in the same horizontal position as the gripper unit (3.1) or in a horizontal position with a predefined horizontal deviation from the horizontal position of the Gripper unit (3.1) can be moved by means of the gripper unit (3.1), and / or wherein the position detection unit (13) is set up for the continuous detection of the position of the gripper unit (3.1). Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) at least one input box (15) and / or at least one output box (17) each for removing or receiving the respective sensor unit (20) when the respective one is imported General cargo (2) into the warehouse (1) or when the respective general cargo (2) is exported out of the warehouse (1), the respective box (15, 17) preferably being set up to charge an / the energy store (21) the respective sensor unit (20); and / or wherein the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) is set up to assign the respective sensor unit (20) to the respective piece goods (2) and is set up to reset the respective sensor unit (20) and is set up to manually or at least partially automatically detect General cargo import on an input side and / or general cargo export on an output side of the warehouse (1). Warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the warehouse logistics data determination system (10) is designed as a warehouse-internal online localization system, in particular set up for use in a warehouse. Method for operating a warehouse logistics data determination system (10) for the indirect determination of data, in particular position data, of piece goods (2), in particular heavy piece goods, to be stored in a fixed position in a warehouse, by means of a plurality of energy-independent sensor units (20), each arranged in an arrangement on the piece goods (2) , in particular in each case in use as unilaterally transmitting data transmitter units in a warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by transmitting or capturing and transmitting data by means of the respective sensor unit (20) to a gripper unit which grips and relocates the respective piece goods (2) ( 3.1) or to a corresponding communication module (12), with known (absolute) position of the gripper unit (3.1), based on wireless communication using at least one communication protocol, the data, in particular posit Ion data, the respective piece goods (2) are determined, and wherein the respective sensor unit (20) for the transmission is autonomously motion-activated, in particular based on a signal from a motion sensor (24) of the respective sensor unit (20), and in response to a movement switches a first, energy-optimized passive mode to a second, transmitting mode, and / or switches from the second mode to the first mode in response to immobility. Use of a plurality of energy self-sufficient sensor units (20) in a warehouse logistics data determination system (10), in particular in a warehouse logistics data determination system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in each case for the indirect determination of data, in particular (relative) position data relating to at least one piece goods (2) Bearing (1), by transmission of data from the respective sensor unit (20) attached to the piece goods (2) to a gripper unit (3.1) gripping and relocating the respective piece goods (2) or a gripper unit moved with the piece goods (2), in particular on the gripper unit (3.1) attached communication module (12), with known (absolute) position of the gripper unit (3.1), based on wireless communication via at least one communication protocol, the respective sensor unit (20) being motion-activated from a first, energy-optimized passive mode into a second, transmitting mode switches, especially unilateral transmitting.

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