WO1995007518A1 - Process and device for releasing and receiving transport caddies space-savingly nested into each other - Google Patents

Process and device for releasing and receiving transport caddies space-savingly nested into each other Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1995007518A1
WO1995007518A1 PCT/DE1994/001025 DE9401025W WO9507518A1 WO 1995007518 A1 WO1995007518 A1 WO 1995007518A1 DE 9401025 W DE9401025 W DE 9401025W WO 9507518 A1 WO9507518 A1 WO 9507518A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
locks
lock
transport
collection point
coupled
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/DE1994/001025
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Rudolf Wanzl
Original Assignee
Wanzl Gmbh & Co. Entwicklungs-Kg
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wanzl Gmbh & Co. Entwicklungs-Kg filed Critical Wanzl Gmbh & Co. Entwicklungs-Kg
Publication of WO1995007518A1 publication Critical patent/WO1995007518A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
    • G07F7/06—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles
    • G07F7/0618—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles by carts
    • G07F7/0636—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles by carts in which the trolleys or carts are kept in a restricted zone such as a coral-like enclosure, or are passing a gate before use is possible
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47F—SPECIAL FURNITURE, FITTINGS, OR ACCESSORIES FOR SHOPS, STOREHOUSES, BARS, RESTAURANTS OR THE LIKE; PAYING COUNTERS
    • A47F10/00—Furniture or installations specially adapted to particular types of service systems, not otherwise provided for
    • A47F10/02—Furniture or installations specially adapted to particular types of service systems, not otherwise provided for for self-service type systems, e.g. supermarkets
    • A47F10/04—Furniture or installations specially adapted to particular types of service systems, not otherwise provided for for self-service type systems, e.g. supermarkets for storing or handling self-service hand-carts or baskets
    • A47F10/045—Row-length limitation means for stored shopping trolleys

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method and a device for releasing and receiving transport trolleys which are kept ready at a collection point, a number of locks being arranged at the collection point on at least one holder, which lockable elements for securing locking elements attached to the transport trolleys are determined and the transport routes coupled to the locks with the aid of the locking elements can be removed by paying a deposit or a fee from the collection point and can be coupled to the locks again at the collection point after use.
  • a method is proposed according to which the wagon user is informed by signaling devices located at the collection point, from which lock a transport wagon can be uncoupled and to which lock the returned transport wagon is to be coupled again.
  • the invention proposes to provide a control central unit which is electrically switched with a coin-operated machine located at the collecting point and each lock has a locking device which can be controlled by the control central unit, the locking unit for receiving and releasing one Locking element is determined and each lock is assigned a signaling device which indicates which of the coupled trolleys is intended for removal and to which lock a returned trolley is to be coupled.
  • the invention advantageously makes it possible for only the last transport carriage in a row of stacked transport carriages to be removed and a returned transport carriage to be coupled in such a way that there is no gap between the row of stacked transport carriages and the returned transport carriage. The desired order is thereby achieved.
  • the collection point 2 being designed as an extremely simple structural arrangement for a better understanding and the number of transport carriages 3 and thus that of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n to a minimum is reduced.
  • the collection point 2 can also have a roof, it can be designed as a housing or, as shown, as a simple frame construction.
  • the number of transport trolleys 3 that can be parked in a stack row per collection point 2 can also be very different. Thirty to fifty trolleys 3 per row are a realistic number.
  • the device 1 has a number of transport trolleys 3 which can preferably be pushed into one another to save space and a collection point 2 intended for the transport trolleys 3.
  • the collective position 2 is equipped with at least one holder 6, on or in which locks 7, 8, 9 ... n are fixed at predetermined intervals.
  • the holder 6 is expediently designed as a rail or tube construction.
  • the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n are approximately of the type that is known, for example, from coin locks located on shopping carts.
  • Each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is assigned a signal device 17, the function of which will be described later.
  • the signaling devices 17 can be fastened directly to the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n or to the holder 6.
  • a coin machine 18 is preferably provided at the beginning of the collecting point 2.
  • the coin machine 18 is intended to accept a coin deposit or a fee that is usually due when a trolley 3 is removed from the collection point 2. It is up to the respective application whether, for example, the deposit is returned in full or in part when the trolley 3 is returned or whether the trolley 3 can only be removed by paying a fee.
  • the same locking element 4 is captively attached to the trolley 3. Each locking element 4, which performs the function of a coupling part, fits into one of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n.
  • the locking elements 4 are expediently fastened flexibly to the transport carriage 3 with the aid of a chain 5.
  • each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is equipped with an electronic control unit 14 and with a locking device 15 which is operatively connected to the control unit 14 and which (15 ) can be designed, for example, as described in EP 0 427 819.
  • a control central unit 16 is preferably arranged in the coin machine 18, which is connected electrically and / or electronically both with the coin machine 18 and with the control unit 14 and, via this (14), with the locking device 15 of each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is connected or switched.
  • the drawing shows only a partially occupied collection point 2.
  • the function of the device 1 is described in more detail using the method steps mentioned below:
  • the central control unit 16 After determining the lock intended for release, the central control unit 16 initiates this to unlock its locking device 15.
  • the locking element can now, based on the exemplary embodiment, be released from the lock 9 and the transport carriage 3 carrying this locking element 4 can be removed from the collection point 2. 2. Function of the signaling devices
  • each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is assigned a signal device 17.
  • the signaling devices 17 are expediently designed as green lights.
  • the visible front fronts of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n can also be illuminated over the entire surface and serve as signaling devices 17.
  • the signaling devices 17 can be controlled by the control center unit 16 via the control units 14 of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n.
  • the signaling device 17 of the free lock 7, 8, 9 ... n that immediately follows a occupied lock 7 or 8 or 9 or ... n lights up. In the example, this is the signaling device 17 of the lock 10.
  • the signaling device 17 lights up on the lock whose ver ⁇ locking element 4 is now released. In the example, this is the signaling device 17 of the lock 9. After the transport carriage 3 has been removed, the signaling device 17 of the lock 10 goes out, but not that of the lock 9. If the described procedure is repeated for the purpose of removing another transport carriage 3, the signal lights up ⁇ device 17 of the lock 8 and the signaling device 17 of the lock 9 goes out when the trolley 3 is uncoupled from the lock 8. The signal device 17 of the lock 8 remains illuminated.
  • a trolley 3 If a trolley 3 is brought back to the collection point 2, it can only be coupled to the lock whose signaling device 17 lights up. This is always the free lock that immediately follows a occupied lock. According to the drawing, this is the lock 10.
  • the locking element 4 By inserting the locking element 4 into the lock 10, the locking element 4 is locked by the locking device 15 of the lock 10.
  • the locking process triggers a contact, which is reported by the control unit 14 of the lock 10 to the control central unit 16.
  • This causes the coin machine 18, if provided, to return at least part of the coin deposit previously paid. If a fee is paid, no payment will be made. Irrespective of this, the signaling device 17 of that lock goes out, in the example it is the lock 10 to which the last returned trolley 3 has been coupled.
  • the signal device 17 of the lock 11 now lights up, as a sign that a trolley 3 can be coupled there.
  • the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n do not necessarily have to be equipped with an electronic control unit 14. If a somewhat more extensive wiring of the electrical components is accepted, the locking device 15 located in the locks 7, 8, 9... N, for example, acting electromagnetically, can be controlled directly by the control central unit 16 in order to achieve the one desired by the invention To achieve benefits. It is also easy for a person skilled in the art to switch the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n with the control central unit 16, for example by means of a parallel connection, in such a way that if one of the locks 7 or 8 or ... n fails, the function ability of the other locks 7 or 8 or ... n and the signaling devices 17 are retained.
  • n has a locking device which can be controlled by the control central unit 16 15 for a locking element ent 4 and that signaling devices 17 are switched on, which indicate exactly which transport carriage 3 can be removed from the collection point 2 and where a returned transport carriage 3 can be coupled without causing gaps.
  • the invention encompasses all common types of telescopic trolleys 3 that can be moved by hand. These include, in particular, platform trolleys, shopping trolleys for all kinds of markets, and luggage trolleys for train stations and airfields.

Abstract

A process and device (2) are disclosed for releasing and receiving transport caddies (3) made available at a collecting point (2). A number of locks (7, 8, 9 ... n) for lockingly receiving locking elements (4) secured to the transport caddies (3) are arranged at the collecting point (2) on at least one support (6). The transport caddies (3) coupled by means of the locking elements (4) to the locks (7, 8, 9 ... n) may be removed from the collecting point (2) by leaving a deposit or paying a tax and after being used they may be coupled again to the locks (7, 8, 9 ... n) at the collecting point (2). The invention is characterised in that signalling devices (17) arranged at the collecting point (2) indicate to the users of the caddies from which lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) a transport caddie (3) may be uncoupled. When caddie users bring back a transport caddie (3), the signalling devices (17) also show them to which lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) the transport caddie (3) is to be coupled again.

Description

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur Freigabe und Entgegen¬ nahme von platzsparend ineinanderschiebbaren Transportwagen Method and device for releasing and receiving space-saving push-in trolleys
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Einrichtung zur Freigabe und Entgegennahme von Transportwagen, die an einer Sammelstelle bereitgehalten sind, wobei an der Sam¬ melstelle an wenigstens einer Halterung eine Anzahl Schlösser angeordnet sind, die zur verriegelbaren Aufnahme von an den Transportwagen befestigten Verriegelungselemen¬ ten bestimmt sind und wobei die mit Hilfe der Verriege¬ lungselemente an die Schlösser angekoppelten Transportwegen durch Entrichtung eines Pfandes oder einer Gebühr der Sammelstelle entnehmbar und nach Gebrauch wieder an der Sammelstelle an die Schlösser ankoppelbar sind.The invention relates to a method and a device for releasing and receiving transport trolleys which are kept ready at a collection point, a number of locks being arranged at the collection point on at least one holder, which lockable elements for securing locking elements attached to the transport trolleys are determined and the transport routes coupled to the locks with the aid of the locking elements can be removed by paying a deposit or a fee from the collection point and can be coupled to the locks again at the collection point after use.
In der internationalen Patentanmeldung WO 84/04835 sind Einrichtungen dieser Art anhand der Ausführungsbeispiele nach Fig. 12 und 13 näher beschrieben. Auch die US 5,069, 325 verweist auf ähnliche Einrichtungen. Den genannten Schriften ist nicht zu entnehmen, wie ein geordnetes Aus¬ leihen und vor allem ein geordnetes Zurückbringen und Ab¬ stellen von Transportwagen dann garantiert sein soll, wenn es gilt, die Transportwagen nach Gebrauch in einer oder in mehreren Reihen platzsparend ineinandergeschoben an der Einrichtung abzustellen.In international patent application WO 84/04835, devices of this type are described in more detail using the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 12 and 13. US 5,069,325 also refers to similar facilities. It is not apparent from the documents mentioned how an orderly loan and, above all, an orderly return and parking of transport trolleys should be guaranteed when the transport trolleys are pushed into one another in one or more rows to save space after use to turn off.
Es ist Aufgabe der Erfindung, ein Verfahren auszuarbeiten und eine gattungsgemäße Einrichtung zur Durchführung dieses Verfahrens so weiterzuentwickeln, daß die eben genannte Zielvorstellung erfüllt wird.It is an object of the invention to develop a method and to further develop a generic device for carrying out this method in such a way that the objective just mentioned is achieved.
Erfindungsgemäß wird ein Verfahren vorgeschlagen, wonach dem Wagenbenützer durch an der Sammelstelle befindliche Signaleinrichtungen angezeigt wird, von welchem Schloß ein Transportwagen abgekoppelt werden kann und an welchem Schloß der zurückgebrachte Transportwagen wieder anzukop¬ peln ist.According to the invention, a method is proposed according to which the wagon user is informed by signaling devices located at the collection point, from which lock a transport wagon can be uncoupled and to which lock the returned transport wagon is to be coupled again.
ERSATZBLATT Zur Durchführung des Verfahrens schlägt die Erfindung vor, eine Steuerungszentraleinheit vorzusehen, die mit einem an der Sammelstelle befindlichen Münzautomaten elektrisch ge¬ schaltet ist und jedes Schloß eine von der Steuerungszen- traleinheit ansteuerbare Verriegelungseinrichtung aufweist, wobei die Verriegelungseinheit zur Aufnahme und zur Frei¬ gabe eines Verriegelungselementes bestimmt ist und jedem Schloß eine Signaleinrichtung zugeordnet ist, die anzeigt, welcher der angekoppelten Transportwagen für die Entnahme vorgesehen und an welchem Schloß ein zurückgebrachter Transportwagen anzukoppeln ist.REPLACEMENT LEAF To carry out the method, the invention proposes to provide a control central unit which is electrically switched with a coin-operated machine located at the collecting point and each lock has a locking device which can be controlled by the control central unit, the locking unit for receiving and releasing one Locking element is determined and each lock is assigned a signaling device which indicates which of the coupled trolleys is intended for removal and to which lock a returned trolley is to be coupled.
Die Erfindung ermöglicht es in vorteilhafter Weise, daß nur der jeweils letzte Transportwagen einer Reihe gestapelter Transportwagen entnommen und ein zurückgebrachter Trans¬ portwagen nur so angekoppelt werden kann, daß zwischen der Reihe gestapelter Transportwagen und dem zurückgebrachten Transportwagen keine Lücke entsteht. Dadurch ist die ange¬ strebte Ordnung erreicht.The invention advantageously makes it possible for only the last transport carriage in a row of stacked transport carriages to be removed and a returned transport carriage to be coupled in such a way that there is no gap between the row of stacked transport carriages and the returned transport carriage. The desired order is thereby achieved.
Anhand einer Zeichnung wird das Verfahren und die Einrich¬ tung näher erläutert, wobei zum besseren Verständnis die Sammelstelle 2 als äußerst einfache bauliche Anordnung gestaltet und die Anzahl der Transportwagen 3 und damit die der Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n auf ein Minimum reduziert ist. Natürlich kann die Sammelstelle 2 auch eine Überdachung aufweisen, sie kann als Gehäuse oder wie dargestellt, als einfache Rahmenkonstruktion gestaltet sein. Auch die Anzahl der pro Sammelstelle 2 in einer Stapelreihe abstellbaren Transportwagen 3 kann sehr unterschiedlich sein. Dreißig bis fünfzig Transportwagen 3 pro Reihe sind eine durchaus realistische Zahl.The method and the device are explained in more detail with the aid of a drawing, the collection point 2 being designed as an extremely simple structural arrangement for a better understanding and the number of transport carriages 3 and thus that of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n to a minimum is reduced. Of course, the collection point 2 can also have a roof, it can be designed as a housing or, as shown, as a simple frame construction. The number of transport trolleys 3 that can be parked in a stack row per collection point 2 can also be very different. Thirty to fifty trolleys 3 per row are a realistic number.
Die Einrichtung 1 weist eine Anzahl bevorzugt platzsparend ineinanderschiebbarer Transportwagen 3 und eine für die Transportwagen 3 bestimmte Sammelstelle 2 auf. Die Sammel- stelle 2 ist mit wenigstens einer Halterung 6 ausgestattet, an oder in der in vorbestimmten Abständen Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n ortsfest angebracht sind. Die Halterung 6 ist zweck¬ mäßigerweise als Schienen- oder Rohrkonstruktion gestaltet. Die Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n sind annähernd von jener Bauart, wie sie z.B. von an Einkaufswagen befindlichen Münzschlös¬ sern bekannt ist. Jedem Schloß 7, 8, 9 ...n ist eine Sig¬ naleinrichtung 17 zugeordnet, deren Funktion später be¬ schrieben wird. Die Signaleinrichtungen 17 können direkt an den Schlössern 7, 8, 9 ...n oder an der Halterung 6 be¬ festigt sein. Bevorzugt am Anfang der Sammelstelle 2 ist ein Münzautomat 18 vorgesehen. Der Münzautomat 18 ist zur Annahme eines Münzpfandes oder einer Gebühr bestimmt, die beim Entnehmen eines Transportwagens 3 aus der Sammelstelle 2 üblicherweise fällig wird. Es bleibt dem jeweiligen An¬ wendungsfall überlassen, ob z.B. das Pfand beim Zurück¬ bringen der Transportwagen 3 ganz oder teilweise erstattet wird oder ob die Transportwagen 3 nur durch Entrichtung einer Gebühr entnehmbar sind. An den Transportwagen 3 ist jeweils ein gleiches Verriegelungselement 4 unverlierbar befestigt. Jedes Verriegelungselement 4, das die Funktion eines Kopplungsteiles ausübt, paßt in eines der Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n. Zweckmäßigerweise sind die Verriegelungsele¬ mente 4 mit Hilfe einer Kette 5 an den Transportwagen 3 flexibel befestigt.The device 1 has a number of transport trolleys 3 which can preferably be pushed into one another to save space and a collection point 2 intended for the transport trolleys 3. The collective position 2 is equipped with at least one holder 6, on or in which locks 7, 8, 9 ... n are fixed at predetermined intervals. The holder 6 is expediently designed as a rail or tube construction. The locks 7, 8, 9 ... n are approximately of the type that is known, for example, from coin locks located on shopping carts. Each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is assigned a signal device 17, the function of which will be described later. The signaling devices 17 can be fastened directly to the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n or to the holder 6. A coin machine 18 is preferably provided at the beginning of the collecting point 2. The coin machine 18 is intended to accept a coin deposit or a fee that is usually due when a trolley 3 is removed from the collection point 2. It is up to the respective application whether, for example, the deposit is returned in full or in part when the trolley 3 is returned or whether the trolley 3 can only be removed by paying a fee. The same locking element 4 is captively attached to the trolley 3. Each locking element 4, which performs the function of a coupling part, fits into one of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n. The locking elements 4 are expediently fastened flexibly to the transport carriage 3 with the aid of a chain 5.
Um nun die der Erfindung gestellte Aufgabe zu erfüllen, ist jedes Schloß 7, 8, 9 ...n mit einer elektronischen Steue¬ rungseinheit 14 und mit einer Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 ausgestattet, die mit der Steuerungseinheit 14 in Wirkver- bindung steht und die (15) z.B. so gestaltet sein kann, wie in der EP 0 427 819 beschrieben. Ferner ist bevorzugt im Münzautomat 18 eine Steuerungszentraleinheit 16 angeordnet, die auf elektrischem und/oder elektronischem Wege sowohl mit dem Münzautomat 18, als auch mit der Steuerungseinheit 14 und über diese (14) mit der Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 eines jeden Schlosses 7, 8, 9 ...n verbunden bzw. geschal¬ tet ist. Auf eine nähere Beschreibung des Münzautomaten 18, der auf jeden Fall die Funktion eines Geldannahme- und Geldspeichergerätes und je nach Ausführung auch die Funk- tion eines Geldrückgabegerätes ausübt, wird verzichtet, da der technische Aufbau des Münzautomaten 18 im Grunde be¬ kannt und deshalb nicht Gegenstand der Erfindung ist. Gleiches gilt für die Steuerungseinheit 14.In order to achieve the object of the invention, each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is equipped with an electronic control unit 14 and with a locking device 15 which is operatively connected to the control unit 14 and which (15 ) can be designed, for example, as described in EP 0 427 819. Furthermore, a control central unit 16 is preferably arranged in the coin machine 18, which is connected electrically and / or electronically both with the coin machine 18 and with the control unit 14 and, via this (14), with the locking device 15 of each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is connected or switched. A detailed description of the coin machine 18, which in any case performs the function of a cash acceptance and money storage device and, depending on the version, also functions as a money return device, is dispensed with, since the technical structure of the coin machine 18 is basically known and therefore not The subject of the invention is. The same applies to the control unit 14.
Die Zeichnung zeigt nur eine teilweise belegte Sammelstelle 2. Anhand der nachfolgend genannten Verfahrensschritte wird die Funktion der Einrichtung 1 näher beschrieben:The drawing shows only a partially occupied collection point 2. The function of the device 1 is described in more detail using the method steps mentioned below:
1. Entnahme eines Transportwagens Um einen Transportwagen 3 der Sammelstelle 2 entnehmen zu können, ist im Münzautomat 18 ein Münzpfand oder eine Ge¬ bühr zu deponieren. Der Eingang der Gebühr oder des Münz¬ pfandes wird vom Münzautomat 18 der Steuerungszeπtralein- heit 16 gemeldet. Durch diese Meldung wird die Steuerungs- Zentraleinheit 16 aktiviert. Von dieser erfolgt, die ent¬ sprechende Programmierung vorausgesetzt, eine an die Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n gerichtete Abfrage, an welche Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n ein Verriegelungselement angekop¬ pelt ist und an welche nicht. Es folgt die Ermittlung jenes mit einem Verriegelungselement 4 bestückten Schlosses, im Beispiel ist es das Schloß 9, das an ein freies unbestück- tes Schloß angrenzt. Im vorliegenden Fall ist dies das Schloß 10. Nach Ermittlung des zur Freigabe bestimmten Schlosses wird dieses durch die Steuerungszentraleinheit 16 zur Entriegelung seiner Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 ver¬ anlaßt. Das Verriegelungselement kann nun, bezogen auf das Ausführungsbeispiel, vom Schloß 9 gelöst und der dieses Verriegelungselement 4 tragende Transportwagen 3 kann der Sammelstelle 2 entnommen werden. 2. Funktion der Signaleinrichtungen1. Removal of a transport trolley In order to be able to remove a transport trolley 3 from the collection point 2, a coin deposit or a fee must be deposited in the coin machine 18. The receipt of the fee or of the coin deposit is reported by the coin-operated machine 18 to the control central unit 16. The control central unit 16 is activated by this message. Provided that the corresponding programming is carried out, this interrogates the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n to which locks 7, 8, 9 ... n a locking element is coupled and to which not. This is followed by the determination of the lock equipped with a locking element 4, in the example it is the lock 9 which is adjacent to a free, empty lock. In the present case, this is the lock 10. After determining the lock intended for release, the central control unit 16 initiates this to unlock its locking device 15. The locking element can now, based on the exemplary embodiment, be released from the lock 9 and the transport carriage 3 carrying this locking element 4 can be removed from the collection point 2. 2. Function of the signaling devices
Wie bereits eingangs erwähnt, ist jedem Schloß 7, 8, 9 ...n eine Signaleinrichtung 17 zugeordnet. Zweckmäßigerweise sind die Signaleinrichtungen 17 als grün leuchtende Lämp- chen gestaltet. Auch können die sichtbaren Vorderfronten der Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n vollflächig beleuchtbar sein und als Signaleinrichtungen 17 dienen. Die Signaleinrichtungen 17 sind über die Steuerungseinheiten 14 der Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n von der Steuerungszentraleiπheit 16 ansteuerbar. Grundsätzlich leuchtet die Signaleinrichtung 17 jenes freien Schlosses 7, 8, 9 ...n auf, das unmittelbar einem belegten Schloß 7 oder 8 oder 9 oder ...n folgt. Im Bei¬ spiel ist dies die Signaleinrichtung 17 des Schlosses 10. Wird das erforderliche Münzpfand oder die Gebühr durch Ein- werfen wenigstens einer Münze (oder eines gleichwertigen Münzersatzes) in den Münzautomaten 18 entrichtet, leuchtet die Signaleinrichtung 17 an jenem Schloß auf, dessen Ver¬ riegelungselement 4 nunmehr gelöst ist. Im Beispiel ist dies die Signaleiπrichtung 17 des Schlosses 9. Nach Ent- nähme des Transportwagens 3 erlischt die Signaleinrichtung 17 des Schlosses 10, nicht aber die des Schlosses 9. Wird der geschilderte Vorgang zum Zwecke des Entnehmens eines weiteren Transportwagens 3 wiederholt, leuchtet die Signal¬ einrichtung 17 des Schlosses 8 auf und die Signaleiπrich- tung 17 des Schlosses 9 erlischt dann, wenn der Transport¬ wagen 3 vom Schloß 8 abgekoppelt ist. Die Signaleinrich¬ tung 17 des Schlosses 8 bleibt erleuchtet.As already mentioned at the beginning, each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n is assigned a signal device 17. The signaling devices 17 are expediently designed as green lights. The visible front fronts of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n can also be illuminated over the entire surface and serve as signaling devices 17. The signaling devices 17 can be controlled by the control center unit 16 via the control units 14 of the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n. Basically, the signaling device 17 of the free lock 7, 8, 9 ... n that immediately follows a occupied lock 7 or 8 or 9 or ... n lights up. In the example, this is the signaling device 17 of the lock 10. If the required coin deposit or the fee is paid by inserting at least one coin (or an equivalent coin substitute) into the coin-operated machine 18, the signaling device 17 lights up on the lock whose ver ¬ locking element 4 is now released. In the example, this is the signaling device 17 of the lock 9. After the transport carriage 3 has been removed, the signaling device 17 of the lock 10 goes out, but not that of the lock 9. If the described procedure is repeated for the purpose of removing another transport carriage 3, the signal lights up ¬ device 17 of the lock 8 and the signaling device 17 of the lock 9 goes out when the trolley 3 is uncoupled from the lock 8. The signal device 17 of the lock 8 remains illuminated.
Bringt nun ein Wagenbenützer seinen Transportwagen 3 zurück, kann dieser nur dort angekoppelt werden, wo eine Signaleinrichtung 17 aufleuchtet. Im Beispiel wäre dies das Schloß 8. Ist der Transportwagen 3 am Schloß 8 angekoppelt, erlischt die Signaleinrichtung 17 des Schlosses 8 und die Signaleinrichtung 17 des nächst freien Schlosses, hier ist es das Schloß 9, beginnt zu leuchten. 3. Zurückbringen eines TransportwagensIf a wagon user now brings his transport wagon 3 back, it can only be coupled where a signal device 17 lights up. In the example, this would be the lock 8. If the transport carriage 3 is coupled to the lock 8, the signaling device 17 of the lock 8 goes out and the signaling device 17 of the next free lock, here it is the lock 9, starts to light up. 3. Returning a dolly
Wird ein Transportwagen 3 zur Sammelstelle 2 zurückge¬ bracht, kann er nur an jenem Schloß angekoppelt werden, dessen Signaleinrichtung 17 leuchtet. Dies ist immer jenes freie Schloß, das einem belegten Schloß unmittelbar folgt. Nach der Zeichnung ist dies das Schloß 10. Durch Einführen des Verriegelungselementes 4 in das Schloß 10 wird das Ver¬ riegelungselement 4 durch die Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 des Schlosses 10 arretiert. Der Verriegelungsvorgang löst einen Kontakt aus, der von der Steuerungseinheit 14 des Schlosses 10 der Steuerungszentraleinheit 16 gemeldet wird. Diese veranlaßt daraufhin den Münzautomaten 18, sofern vor¬ gesehen, zur Rückgabe zumindest eines Teils des zuvor ent¬ richteten Münzpfandes. Bei der Entrichtung einer Gebühr unterbleibt eine Auszahlung. Unabhängig davon erlischt die Signaleinrichtung 17 jenes Schlosses, im Beispiel ist es das Schloß 10, an das der zuletzt zurückgebrachte Trans¬ portwagen 3 angekoppelt worden ist. Dafür leuchtet nunmehr die Signaleinrichtung 17 des Schlosses 11 auf, zum Zeichen, daß dort ein Transportwagen 3 angekoppelt werden kann.If a trolley 3 is brought back to the collection point 2, it can only be coupled to the lock whose signaling device 17 lights up. This is always the free lock that immediately follows a occupied lock. According to the drawing, this is the lock 10. By inserting the locking element 4 into the lock 10, the locking element 4 is locked by the locking device 15 of the lock 10. The locking process triggers a contact, which is reported by the control unit 14 of the lock 10 to the control central unit 16. This then causes the coin machine 18, if provided, to return at least part of the coin deposit previously paid. If a fee is paid, no payment will be made. Irrespective of this, the signaling device 17 of that lock goes out, in the example it is the lock 10 to which the last returned trolley 3 has been coupled. For this purpose, the signal device 17 of the lock 11 now lights up, as a sign that a trolley 3 can be coupled there.
Es bleibt anzumerken, daß die Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n nicht unbedingt mit einer elektronischen Steuereinheit 14 ausge¬ stattet sein müssen. Nimmt man eine etwas umfangreichere Verdrahtung der elektrischen Bauteile in Kauf, so können die in den Schlössern 7, 8, 9 ...n befindliche, beispiels¬ weise elektromagnetisch wirkende Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 von der Steuerungszentraleinheit 16 direkt angesteuert werden, um den durch die Erfindung angestrebten Nutzen zu erzielen. Auch ist es für den Fachmann ein leichtes, die Schlösser 7, 8, 9 ...n mit der Steuerungszentraleinheit 16 etwa durch Parallelschaltung so zu schalten, daß bei Aus¬ fall eines der Schlösser 7 oder 8 oder ...n die Funktions¬ fähigkeit der übrigen Schlösser 7 oder 8 oder ...n und der Signaleinrichtungen 17 erhalten bleiben. Es ist ferner zweckmäßig, die Leuchtkraft der Signaleinrichtungen 17 un¬ terschiedlich so zu wählen, daß beim Einwurf eines Münz¬ pfandes oder einer Gebühr in den Münzautomaten 18 jenes Schloß stärker leuchtet oder blinkt, an dem der zu ent- nehmende Transportwagen 3 angekoppelt ist, als jenes freie Schloß, das dem noch belegten Schloß als nächstes folgt. Die Erfindung überläßt es dem Fachmann, mit Hilfe welcher bekannter elektrischer und elektronischer Bauteile er die Einrichtung 1 letztendlich steuert. Wesentlich bleibt, daß zur Steuerung der eben geschilderten Vorgänge eine Steue¬ rungszentraleinheit 16 vorgesehen ist, die mit dem Münzau¬ tomaten 18 elektrisch geschaltet ist, daß jedes Schloß 7, 8, 9 ...n eine von der Steuerungszeπtraleinheit 16 ansteu¬ erbare Verriegelungseinrichtung 15 für ein Verriegelungs- ele ent 4 aufweist und daß Signaleinrichtungen 17 zuge¬ schaltet sind, die exakt angeben, welcher Transportwagen 3 der Sammelstelle 2 entnommen werden und wo ein zurückge¬ brachter Transportwagen 3, ohne Lücken zu verursachen, angekoppelt werden kann. Es bleibt abschließend zu erwähnen, daß an den Sammelstel¬ len 2 mehr als eine einzige Halterung 6 vorgesehen sein kann. Ebenso ist anzumerken, daß die Erfindung alle gängi¬ gen Arten von ineinanderschiebbaren Transportwagen 3 um¬ faßt, die von Hand bewegbar sind. Dazu zählen insbesondere Plattformwagen, Einkaufswagen für Märkte aller Art sowie Kofferkulis für Bahnhöfe und Flugplätze. It should be noted that the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n do not necessarily have to be equipped with an electronic control unit 14. If a somewhat more extensive wiring of the electrical components is accepted, the locking device 15 located in the locks 7, 8, 9... N, for example, acting electromagnetically, can be controlled directly by the control central unit 16 in order to achieve the one desired by the invention To achieve benefits. It is also easy for a person skilled in the art to switch the locks 7, 8, 9 ... n with the control central unit 16, for example by means of a parallel connection, in such a way that if one of the locks 7 or 8 or ... n fails, the function ability of the other locks 7 or 8 or ... n and the signaling devices 17 are retained. It is further It is advisable to choose the luminosity of the signaling devices 17 so that when a coin deposit or a fee is inserted into the coin-operated machine 18, the lock to which the transport trolley 3 to be removed is coupled flashes or flashes more strongly than the free one Lock that follows the still occupied lock next. The invention leaves it to the person skilled in the art, with the aid of which known electrical and electronic components, he ultimately controls the device 1. It remains essential that a control central unit 16 is provided for controlling the processes just described, which is electrically connected to the coin operated machine 18, that each lock 7, 8, 9 ... n has a locking device which can be controlled by the control central unit 16 15 for a locking element ent 4 and that signaling devices 17 are switched on, which indicate exactly which transport carriage 3 can be removed from the collection point 2 and where a returned transport carriage 3 can be coupled without causing gaps. Finally, it should be mentioned that more than a single holder 6 can be provided at the collecting points 2. It should also be noted that the invention encompasses all common types of telescopic trolleys 3 that can be moved by hand. These include, in particular, platform trolleys, shopping trolleys for all kinds of markets, and luggage trolleys for train stations and airfields.

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Verfahren zur Freigabe und Entgegennahme von Transport¬ wagen, die an einer Sammelstelle bereitgehalten sind, wobei an der Sammelstelle an wenigstens einer Halterung eine Anzahl Schlösser angeordnet sind, die zur verrie- gelbaren Aufnahme von an den Transportwagen befestigten Verriegelungselementen bestimmt sind und wobei die mit Hilfe der Verriegelungselemente an die Schlösser ange¬ koppelten Transportwagen durch Entrichtung eines Pfandes oder einer Gebühr der Sammelstelle entnehmbar und nach Gebrauch wieder an der Sammelstelle an die Schlösser an¬ koppelbar sind, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß dem Wagen¬ benützer durch an der Sammelstelle (2) befindliche Sig¬ naleinrichtungen (17) angezeigt wird, von welchem Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) ein Transportwagen (3) abgekoppelt wer- den kann und daß dem Wagenbenützer beim Zurückbringen des Transportwagens (3) durch die Signaleinrichtungen (17) ebenso zu erkennen gegeben wird, an welchem Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) der Transportwagen (3) wieder anzukoppeln ist .1. A method for releasing and receiving transport trolleys which are kept ready at a collection point, a number of locks being arranged on the collection point on at least one holder which are intended for the lockable reception of locking elements fastened to the transport trolley and the can be removed from the collection point by paying a deposit or a fee by means of the locking elements and can be connected to the locks again after use at the collection point, characterized in that the carriage user can be connected to the collection point (2 ) located signaling devices (17) is displayed, from which lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) a transport trolley (3) can be uncoupled and that the trolley user when returning the transport trolley (3) by the signaling devices ( 17) it is also shown at which lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) the transport carriage (3) is to be coupled again.
2. Einrichtung zur Freigabe und Entgegennahme von Trans¬ portwagen, die an einer Sammelstelle bereitgehalten sind, wobei an der Sammelstelle an wenigstens einer Halterung eine Anzahl Schlösser angeordnet sind, die zur verriegelbareπ Aufnahme von an den Transportwagen befestigten Verriegelungselementen bestimmt sind und wobei die mit Hilfe der Verriegelungselemente an die Schlösser angekoppelten Transportwagen durch Entrichtung eines Pfandes oder einer Gebühr der Sammelstelle ent- nehmbar und nach Gebrauch wieder an der Sammelstelle an die Schlösser ankoppelbar sind, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß eine Steuerungszentraleinheit (16) vorgesehen ist, die mit einem an der Sammelstelle (2) befindlichen Münz- auto aten (18) elektrisch geschaltet ist und daß jedes Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) eine von der Steueruπgszentralein- heit (16) ansteuerbare Verriegelungseinrichtung (15) aufweist, wobei die Verriegelungseinrichtung (15) zur Aufnahme und zur Freigabe eines Verriegelungselementes (4) bestimmt ist und jedem Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) eine Signaleinrichtung (17) zugeordnet ist, die anzeigt, welcher der angekoppelten Transportwagen (3) für die Entnahme vorgesehen und an welchem Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) ein zurückgebrachter Transportwagen (3) anzukoppeln ist.2. Device for releasing and receiving transport trolleys, which are kept ready at a collection point, a number of locks being arranged on the collection point on at least one holder, which are intended for the lockable reception of locking elements fastened to the transport trolley, and which with the help the locking elements of the transport vehicles coupled to the locks can be removed by paying a deposit or a fee from the collection point and can be coupled back to the locks at the collection point after use, characterized in that a central control unit (16) is provided which is connected to the collection point (2) coin auto aten (18) is electrically connected and that each lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) has a locking device (15) which can be controlled by the central control unit (16), the locking device (15) for receiving and releasing a locking element (4) is determined and each lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) is assigned a signal device (17) which indicates which of the coupled transport carriages (3) is intended for removal and on which lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) a returned trolley (3) is to be coupled.
3. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Halterung (6) als Schienen- oder Rohrkonstruk¬ tion gestaltet ist, an oder in der die Schlösser (7, 8, 9 ...n) in vorbestimmten Abständen ortsfest angebracht sind .3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the holder (6) is designed as a rail or Rohrkonstruk¬ tion, on or in which the locks (7, 8, 9 ... n) are fixed at predetermined intervals.
4. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 2 oder 3, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß die Signaleinrichtungen (17) entweder an den Schlössern (7, 8, 9 ...n) oder an der Halterung (6) vorgesehen sind.4. Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the signaling devices (17) either on the locks (7, 8, 9 ... n) or on the holder (6) are provided.
5. Einrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 2 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß jedes Verriegelungselement (4) mit5. Device according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that each locking element (4) with
Hilfe einer Kette (5) an jedem Transportwagen (3) be¬ festigt ist.A chain (5) is attached to each transport trolley (3).
6. Einrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 2 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerungszentraleinheit (16) im Münzautomat (18) untergebracht ist.6. Device according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the control central unit (16) in the coin machine (18) is housed.
7. Einrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Signaleinrichtungen (17) unter¬ schiedlich stark oder impulsartig beleuchtbar sind. 7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the signaling devices (17) can be illuminated differently or in a pulsed manner.
8. Einrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß jedes Schloß (7, 8, 9 ...n) mit einer elektronischen Steuerungseinheit (14) ausgestat¬ tet ist, die von der Steuerungszeπtraleinheit (16) an¬ steuerbar sind.8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that each lock (7, 8, 9 ... n) is equipped with an electronic control unit (14) which can be controlled by the control center unit (16) are.
Einrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Steuerungszentraleinheit (16) mit den Schlössern (7, 8, Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the central control unit (16) with the locks (7, 8,
9 ...n) durch Parallelschal¬ tung elektrisch so verbunden ist, daß durch Ausfall eines der Schlösser (7 oder 8 oder ...n) die Funktions¬ fähigkeit der übrigen Schlösser (7 oder 8 oder ...n) sowie der Signaleinrichtungen (17) erhalten bleiben. 9 ... n) is electrically connected by means of a parallel circuit such that if one of the locks (7 or 8 or ... n) fails, the functionality of the other locks (7 or 8 or ... n) and the Signal devices (17) are retained.
PCT/DE1994/001025 1993-09-07 1994-09-06 Process and device for releasing and receiving transport caddies space-savingly nested into each other WO1995007518A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4330255A DE4330255A1 (en) 1993-09-07 1993-09-07 Method and device for releasing and receiving space-saving push-in trolleys
DEP4330255.6 1993-09-07

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1995007518A1 true WO1995007518A1 (en) 1995-03-16

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ID=6497066

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PCT/DE1994/001025 WO1995007518A1 (en) 1993-09-07 1994-09-06 Process and device for releasing and receiving transport caddies space-savingly nested into each other

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DE (2) DE4330255A1 (en)
WO (1) WO1995007518A1 (en)

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DE19541422A1 (en) * 1995-08-09 1997-02-13 Expresso Deutschland Management system for luggage trolleys in airport or rail station - has receiver-transmitter units on trolleys that communicate with central system carrying out tracking
DE19621823A1 (en) * 1996-05-31 1997-12-04 Vendoret Holding Sa Shopping or luggage trolley forfeit with key function
DE19814918C1 (en) 1998-04-03 1999-07-29 Siegel Geb Gmbh Co Kg Storage station for stackable shopping trolleys or luggage trolleys having coin deposit locks
DE10019941B4 (en) 2000-04-20 2012-12-06 Systec Pos-Technology Gmbh Method and system for detecting and rewarding the return of shopping carts
EP2243402A1 (en) * 2009-04-23 2010-10-27 C.I.C.A. S.r.l. Row-limiter device for the orderly storage of trolleys and the like

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FR2582605A1 (en) * 1985-05-30 1986-12-05 Ronis Sa Deposit-collecting installation for objects, in particular for trolleys, and corresponding deposit-collecting device
EP0231934A2 (en) * 1986-02-06 1987-08-12 Wanzl Metallwarenfabrik Gmbh Method and apparatus for dispensing and collecting trolleys, especially shopping and luggage trolleys
FR2612063A1 (en) * 1987-03-13 1988-09-16 Fayolle Fils Entreprise J Device for storing trolleys
EP0360264A2 (en) * 1988-09-21 1990-03-28 Wolfgang Beyer Kg Arrangement for blocking shopping trolleys, transport trolleys or the like
DE3900538A1 (en) * 1989-01-11 1990-07-12 Peter Fuchs Coin insertion and return arrangement for deposit coins
DE4135548A1 (en) * 1991-10-28 1993-04-29 Peter Fuchs Indicator for space availability in supermarket trolley park - has switches located in each bay that are actuated when bays are full to turn indicator light on

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DE3238091A1 (en) * 1981-07-15 1984-04-19 Peter Ing.(grad.) 7500 Karlsruhe Fuchs Securing system for shopping trolleys, luggage trolleys and similar devices
FR2582605A1 (en) * 1985-05-30 1986-12-05 Ronis Sa Deposit-collecting installation for objects, in particular for trolleys, and corresponding deposit-collecting device
EP0231934A2 (en) * 1986-02-06 1987-08-12 Wanzl Metallwarenfabrik Gmbh Method and apparatus for dispensing and collecting trolleys, especially shopping and luggage trolleys
FR2612063A1 (en) * 1987-03-13 1988-09-16 Fayolle Fils Entreprise J Device for storing trolleys
EP0360264A2 (en) * 1988-09-21 1990-03-28 Wolfgang Beyer Kg Arrangement for blocking shopping trolleys, transport trolleys or the like
DE3900538A1 (en) * 1989-01-11 1990-07-12 Peter Fuchs Coin insertion and return arrangement for deposit coins
DE4135548A1 (en) * 1991-10-28 1993-04-29 Peter Fuchs Indicator for space availability in supermarket trolley park - has switches located in each bay that are actuated when bays are full to turn indicator light on

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE59401646D1 (en) 1997-03-06
EP0643372B1 (en) 1997-01-22
EP0643372A1 (en) 1995-03-15
DE4330255A1 (en) 1995-03-09

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