WO2021140291A1 - Pallet comprising a tracking device, assembly of at least two pallets and pallet-tracking method - Google Patents

Pallet comprising a tracking device, assembly of at least two pallets and pallet-tracking method Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021140291A1
WO2021140291A1 PCT/FR2021/050003 FR2021050003W WO2021140291A1 WO 2021140291 A1 WO2021140291 A1 WO 2021140291A1 FR 2021050003 W FR2021050003 W FR 2021050003W WO 2021140291 A1 WO2021140291 A1 WO 2021140291A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pallet
magnetic field
sensor
state
sensors
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR2021/050003
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Baptiste ARNOU
Edouard Leclercq
Frédéric SAMMUT
Raphaël RUET
Valentin FAVREAU
Original Assignee
Green Scale Alchemy
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
Priority claimed from FR2000109A external-priority patent/FR3105970A1/en
Priority claimed from FR2000118A external-priority patent/FR3105969A1/en
Application filed by Green Scale Alchemy filed Critical Green Scale Alchemy
Publication of WO2021140291A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021140291A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D19/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D19/0004—Rigid pallets without side walls
    • B65D19/0053—Rigid pallets without side walls the load supporting surface being made of more than one element
    • B65D19/0077—Rigid pallets without side walls the load supporting surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces
    • B65D19/0089—Rigid pallets without side walls the load supporting surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces the base surface being made of more than one element
    • B65D19/0093—Rigid pallets without side walls the load supporting surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces the base surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces
    • B65D19/0095—Rigid pallets without side walls the load supporting surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces the base surface being made of more than one element forming discontinuous or non-planar contact surfaces and each contact surface having a stringer-like shape
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D19/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D19/38—Details or accessories
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
    • B65D2203/10—Transponders
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00263—Overall construction of the pallet
    • B65D2519/00273—Overall construction of the pallet made of more than one piece
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00283—Overall construction of the load supporting surface
    • B65D2519/00293—Overall construction of the load supporting surface made of more than one piece
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00283—Overall construction of the load supporting surface
    • B65D2519/00298—Overall construction of the load supporting surface skeleton type
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00313—Overall construction of the base surface
    • B65D2519/00323—Overall construction of the base surface made of more than one piece
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00313—Overall construction of the base surface
    • B65D2519/00328—Overall construction of the base surface shape of the contact surface of the base
    • B65D2519/00333—Overall construction of the base surface shape of the contact surface of the base contact surface having a stringer-like shape
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00258—Overall construction
    • B65D2519/00368—Overall construction of the non-integral separating spacer
    • B65D2519/00373—Overall construction of the non-integral separating spacer whereby at least one spacer is made of one piece
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00547—Connections
    • B65D2519/00552—Structures connecting the constitutive elements of the pallet to each other, i.e. load supporting surface, base surface and/or separate spacer
    • B65D2519/00572—Structures connecting the constitutive elements of the pallet to each other, i.e. load supporting surface, base surface and/or separate spacer with separate auxiliary element, e.g. screws, nails, bayonets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2519/00—Pallets or like platforms, with or without side walls, for supporting loads to be lifted or lowered
    • B65D2519/00004—Details relating to pallets
    • B65D2519/00736—Details
    • B65D2519/00935—Details with special means for nesting or stacking
    • B65D2519/00955—Details with special means for nesting or stacking stackable
    • B65D2519/0096—Details with special means for nesting or stacking stackable when empty
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01V—GEOPHYSICS; GRAVITATIONAL MEASUREMENTS; DETECTING MASSES OR OBJECTS; TAGS
    • G01V3/00—Electric or magnetic prospecting or detecting; Measuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination, deviation
    • G01V3/08—Electric or magnetic prospecting or detecting; Measuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination, deviation operating with magnetic or electric fields produced or modified by objects or geological structures or by detecting devices
    • G01V3/081—Electric or magnetic prospecting or detecting; Measuring magnetic field characteristics of the earth, e.g. declination, deviation operating with magnetic or electric fields produced or modified by objects or geological structures or by detecting devices the magnetic field is produced by the objects or geological structures

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a so-called connected pallet and a set of at least two superimposed pallets.
  • a pallet comprising at least one load support plate, a sole and a tracking device, the tracking device comprising:
  • control unit configured at least to acquire data supplied by the sensor (s) and to control the communication device so as to transmit data depending at least on the data supplied by the or at least one of the sensors.
  • An object of the invention is to provide a pallet whose design allows a simple and rapid way to identify the conditions of use of a pallet to make it possible to conclude or not to its potential availability with a view to increasing the time of use of said pallet.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a pallet, the design of which makes it possible, in a simple and rapid manner, to identify a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet.
  • the invention relates to a pallet comprising at least one load support plate, a sole and a tracking device, the tracking device comprising at least one communication device allowing by link wirelessly to transmit data, at least one sensor and at least one control unit configured at least to acquire data provided by the sensor (s) and to control the communication device so as to transmit data according to at least the data provided by the or at least one of the sensors, characterized in that the pallet comprises at least one magnetic field generator and in that the or at least one of the sensors is a magnetic field sensor configured to pick up a magnetic field in a zone extending above the load support plate in the position of the pallet resting by its sole on a horizontal flat surface.
  • the principle is based on the observation that when the pallets are not used, they are generally stored in the stacked state. Consequently, the presence of a magnetic field sensor and of a magnetic field generator in a pallet allows, in the covered state of the load plate of said pallet by an identical or similar pallet, the detection, by the sensor magnetic field of the lower vane, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator of the upper vane.
  • the presence of a stacked pallet is assimilated for the lower pallet to an empty state of said lower pallet which reflects its availability for any use.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the pallet is configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load support plate in the positioned state of the resting pallet.
  • the magnetic field generator and the magnetic field sensor of a paddle are complementary so that the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator can be picked up by the magnetic field sensor as a function of the relative position of the magnetic field sensor and the magnetic field generator.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors is configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load support plate in the position of the pallet resting by its position. sole on a horizontal flat surface when the value of the magnetic field in said zone is greater than a predetermined value.
  • This predetermined value is preferably chosen as a function of the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the or at least one of the magnetic field generators fitted to the pallet.
  • the magnetic field sensor is a magnetometer or a reed bulb sensor.
  • the magnetic field sensor can therefore be a sensor for detecting a magnetic field or a sensor for measuring a magnetic field.
  • the magnetic field generator comprises at least one magnet, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.
  • a permanent magnet limits the risk of breakdown.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field generators and the or at least the one of the magnetic field sensors are arranged one above the other with the magnetic field generator extending below the magnetic field sensor.
  • the tracking device comprising several sensors of which at least one is a movement sensor
  • the control unit is configured to control the magnetic field sensor and / or acquire data provided by the magnetic field sensor in at least based on the data provided by the motion sensor.
  • the operating control of the magnetic field sensor and / or the acquisition by the control unit of data supplied by the magnetic field sensor of the pallet are based at least on the presence or absence of movement of the pallet. palette.
  • the pallet movement sensor is also a pallet position sensor.
  • control unit is configured:
  • the control unit is configured to compare data supplied by the magnetic field sensor and successively acquired by the unit control, to determine as a function of the result of the comparison at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of a similar pallet stacked on said pallet and to control the communication device in such a way in transmitting at least one data item corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet.
  • said pallet comprises at least one stud arranged between the load support plate and the sole and the or at least one of the studs is a so-called technical stud equipped with at least part of the monitoring system. This arrangement optimizes the lifespan of the monitoring device.
  • the technical stud is a central stud arranged at the level of the center of the load support plate.
  • the detection of the magnetic field is facilitated. This also results in increased reliability of the tracking device.
  • the or at least one of the so-called technical studs is a cylindrical stud forming a right cylinder with an axis of revolution orthogonal to the load support plane of the plate, said cylindrical stud being mounted to rotate freely about an axis coincident with the axis of revolution of said cylinder. This assembly makes it possible to limit the risk of damage to the monitoring device.
  • the or at least one of said technical pads comprises, for the assembly of at least part of the tracking device with said technical pad, at least one cavity of receiving at least part of the tracking device, and said cavity is preferably provided in addition with an access opening to said cavity for the introduction of at least part of the tracking device inside said cavity, of at least one orifice for communication of the cavity with the outside of the pad, this communication orifice being an orifice having the function of emptying said cavity and / or providing additional access to said cavity.
  • This feature allows easy replacement and / or maintenance of the tracking device.
  • a further subject of the invention is a set of at least two so-called lower and upper pallets respectively arranged in the superimposed state, characterized in that each pallet conforms to that described above and in that the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the lower vane is configured to sense the magnetic field of the or at least one of the magnetic field generators of the upper vane.
  • a further subject of the invention is a method for tracking a pallet, characterized in that the pallet being as described above, said method comprises -a step of acquiring data supplied by the or at least the one of the magnetic field sensors on the pallet,
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view in a partially exploded position of a pallet according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pallet according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a set of two pallets arranged in a superimposed state
  • FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of two technical blocks, one belonging to one of the pallets, the other to the other of the pallets of two superimposed pallets,
  • FIG. 5 schematically represents in the form of blocks the architecture of the monitoring device
  • FIG. 6 represents in the form of cross-sectional views the stages of assembly of a pallet
  • FIG. 7 represents in the form of a flowchart, the different steps for the transmission of data by the communication device.
  • the invention relates to a so-called connected pallet 1.
  • This pallet 1 comprises, in a manner known per se, a sole 3 intended to form the bearing surface on the ground of the pallet 1 and a load support plate 2 surmounting said sole 3.
  • This load support plate 2 has an upper face intended to receive the loads and a lower face turned towards the sole 3.
  • the pallet 1 further comprises a tracking device 4 for the production of a so-called connected pallet 1.
  • This tracking device 4 comprises at least one communication device 441 making it possible, by wireless link, to transmit data also called information, one or more sensors 44 and at least one control unit 46 configured to acquire data supplied by the or the sensors 44 and to control the communication device 441 so as to transmit data or information, depending at least on the data supplied by the or at least one of the sensors 44.
  • the communication device 441 comprises a radio transmitter which may be in the form of an integrated radio module or associated with the control unit 46 in a manner known per se.
  • This radio transmitter is generally configured to communicate according to a communication protocol of the short range and / or low consumption type.
  • the communication network with which the communication device 441 is configured to communicate can be one of the following networks: Lora, Sigfox, Ingénu, or any other type of LPWAN network (for Low-Power Wide Area Network in English), or LTN (for Low Throughput Networks in English), or LPWN (for Low Power Wireless Network in English) as defined in particular by ETSI (for European Telecommunications Standards Institute in English) or even by a network wifi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-wave or similar.
  • LPWAN network for Low-Power Wide Area Network in English
  • LTN for Low Throughput Networks in English
  • LPWN Low Power Wireless Network in English
  • ETSI European Telecommunications Standards Institute in English
  • said radio transmitter is in the form of an electronic device, comprising a chip, for example, connected to an antenna through, for example, an adaptation circuit.
  • Said control unit 46 is in the form of an electronic and / or computer system which comprises for example a microprocessor or a microcontroller and a working memory.
  • the control unit 46 can be in the form of a programmable logic controller.
  • the functions and steps described can be implemented as a computer program or via hardware components (eg programmable door arrays).
  • the functions and steps performed by the control unit 46 or its modules can be performed by computer instruction sets or modules implemented in a processor or controller or be performed by dedicated electronic components or FPGA type components. or ASIC. It is also possible to combine computer parts and electronic parts.
  • the unit or means or modules of said unit are configured to perform a given operation, this means that the unit comprises computer instructions and the corresponding means of execution which make it possible to carry out said operation and / or that the unit comprises corresponding electronic components.
  • the tracking device 4 is in the form of a housing and the communication device 441, the sensor (s) and the control unit 46 are housed inside the housing.
  • the tracking device 4 is an autonomous tracking device 4.
  • This tracking device 4 therefore also includes a power supply such as a battery 9, said battery being housed inside the housing.
  • the pallet 1 is generally intended to be stored on a logistics site, such as a platform, which comprises a plurality of radio receivers, such as an array of antennas, disseminated on the site, with which said radio transmitter can communicate.
  • a logistics site such as a platform
  • radio receivers such as an array of antennas
  • the data received by said receivers are able to be transmitted to a remote terminal, such as a mobile phone or a computer and to be processed by a dedicated information system to allow the collection of individual or collective information concerning the pallets thus managed.
  • a remote terminal such as a mobile phone or a computer
  • a dedicated information system to allow the collection of individual or collective information concerning the pallets thus managed.
  • the pallet comprises an identification data medium by contactless reading, such as a radio tag, and the radio transmitter comprises a unique identifier, this identifier being stored in the medium. of identification data.
  • the device 4 for tracking the pallet 1 can include one or more sensors 44.
  • One of the sensors, shown at 442 in the figures, is a magnetic field sensor.
  • this magnetic field sensor 442 can be a magnetometer for measuring a magnetic field or a reed bulb sensor, that is to say a sensor for detecting a magnetic field configured to change state in the manner of a switch, when the detected magnetic field is greater than a predetermined value.
  • the pallet 1 further comprises at least one magnetic field generator 47.
  • the or each magnetic field generator 47 can be formed by a magnet, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, in particular a coil.
  • the solution with permanent magnets formed by ferromagnetic and / or ferrimagnetic materials is retained.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors 442 is configured to detect at least one other magnetic field, that is to say different from the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator or generators 47 equipping the palette.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors 442 of the pallet is configured to pick up a magnetic field in an area represented by a hatched part in FIG. 2, this area extending above the plate. load support, that is to say the face side of the top of the load support plate in the position of the pallet 1 resting by its sole 3 on a horizontal flat surface.
  • the pallet 1 therefore comprises, on the face side of the top of the load support plate 2, a location suitable for being occupied by a magnetic field generator of a pallet, identical or similar, placed on said pallet and the area in which the magnetic field sensor is configured to sense a magnetic field covering at least part of said location.
  • a magnetic field generator of a pallet identical or similar, placed on said pallet and the area in which the magnetic field sensor is configured to sense a magnetic field covering at least part of said location.
  • the location of the magnetic field generator is perfectly controlled.
  • the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the lower pallet is configured to pick up the magnetic field of the or at minus one of the magnetic field generators on the upper vane.
  • the generator 47 of magnetic field and magnetic field sensor (s) 442 are disposed one above the other with magnetic field generator 47 extending below magnetic field sensor 442.
  • the magnetic field sensor (s) 442 and the magnet (s) of the magnetic field generator 47 can be arranged in several locations on the pallet 1.
  • the pallet 1 comprises at least one stud, in this case several studs shown at 51 and 52 in the figures and arranged between the load support plate 2 and the sole 3, and one of the pads, said technique, shown at 52 in the figures, is equipped with at least part of the tracking device 4.
  • the magnetic field sensor 442 is associated with said technical pad 52. In the example shown, the same is true for the magnetic field generator 47.
  • the technical pad 52 is a central pad arranged at the level of the center of the load support plate 2.
  • This technical stud is a cylindrical stud forming a right cylinder with an axis of revolution orthogonal to the load bearing plane of the load bearing plate, said cylindrical stud being mounted to rotate freely about an axis coincident with the axis of revolution of said cylinder.
  • This technical stud 52 comprises a central bore 10 for receiving a connecting member 11 connecting the load support plate 2 to the sole 3.
  • This connecting member 11 forms the axis around which said technical stud 52 is mounted free to rotate.
  • This connecting member 11 is here formed by a rivet.
  • This technical pad 52 comprises, for the assembly of at least part of the tracking device 4 with said technical pad 52, at least one cavity 6 for receiving at least part of the tracking device 4.
  • Said cavity 6 is preferably provided in addition with an opening 7 for access to said cavity 6 for the introduction of at least part of the tracking device 4 inside said cavity 6, with at least one orifice 8 for communication of the cavity 6 with the outside of the technical stud 52.
  • This communication orifice 8 is an orifice with the function of emptying said cavity 6 and / or providing additional access to said cavity 6.
  • the opening 7 for access to the cavity 6 and the orifice 8 for communication with the cavity 6 are provided, one at one end, the other at the other of the ends of said cylinder.
  • the expulsion of the component box of the device 4 for tracking the cavity 6 of the technical stud 52 can, after removal of the load support plate 2, be effected through the communication orifice 8 by simple thrust exerted on said housing in the direction of the opening 7 for access to the cavity 6.
  • the housing can thus be removed to allow, for example, a change of the battery.
  • the assembly of the sole 3, of the technical block 52 and of the load support plate 2 can be carried out as illustrated in FIG. 4.
  • the first step can include the insertion of the connecting member 11, such as a rivet, intended to connect the load support plate 2 to the sole 3 through the central bore 10 of the technical stud 52 in the sole 3 as illustrated in the top diagram of FIG. 4.
  • the technical pad 52 with the associated tracking device 4 is threaded onto said connecting member 11 and the load support plate 2 is attached to the end of the connecting member 11 projecting from the technical pad 52, before to be immobilized by riveting using said connecting member 11.
  • an industrial process of assembling the pallet can be envisaged.
  • the tracking device 4 comprises several sensors 44.
  • One of the sensors, shown at 445 in the figures, is a movement sensor.
  • the other sensor shown at 443 is a temperature sensor while the sensor 444 is a humidity sensor.
  • This movement sensor 445 is here formed by an accelerometer and therefore forms both a movement and a position sensor.
  • the control unit 46 is configured to acquire the data formed by this motion sensor 445 and to detect, based on the data provided, a static and horizontal state of the pallet 1.
  • the control unit 46 is configured to control the magnetic field sensor 442 and / or acquire data supplied by the magnetic field sensor 442 based at least on the data supplied by the movement sensor 445.
  • the control unit 46 is configured to control the magnetic field sensor 442, in particular to wake up the magnetic field sensor 442 in the case of a magnetometer for carrying out a measurement, when the pallet 1 is detected. as being static and horizontal or substantially horizontal to within plus or minus 25 °.
  • the control unit 46 is configured to, in the case of a reed bulb sensor, acquire data from the magnetic field sensor and detect its state when the pallet is detected as being static and to horizontal or substantially horizontal to within plus or minus 25 °. This results in energy savings.
  • the control unit 46 is configured to determine, based on the data supplied by the sensor (s) of magnetic field, at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet stacked on said pallet and for controlling the communication device 441 so as to transmit at least one datum corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet 1.
  • the change of state of the switch formed by said sensor when the magnetic field sensor 442 is a reed bulb sensor, the change of state of the switch formed by said sensor generates a signal picked up by the control unit 46.
  • This signal is generated when the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 442 is greater than a predetermined value.
  • This predetermined value corresponds at least to the value of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator 47 of an identical or similar pallet 1, in the posed state of this pallet on the load-bearing plate 2 of said pallet 1.
  • the change of state takes place when a pallet equipped with a magnetic field generator is placed on the load plate of the pallet.
  • This change of state materializes a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet. Indeed, as the pallet is surmounted by an identical or similar pallet, it is considered as available.
  • the information is therefore transmitted via the communication device 441 to a receiver and then to a user who will decide on the use of said pallet.
  • the control unit 46 which acquires the data supplied by the magnetic field sensor 442 can detect the presence of a pallet on the load plate 2 of said pallet 1, from successive measurements of the magnetic field and of the variation of the magnetic field between said measurements.
  • An example of such a process is depicted in Figure 7.
  • the magnetometer is initialized and a measurement of the value of the reference magnetic field is acquired by the control unit 46.
  • the movement and position of the pallet 1 are tested using the motion sensor 445 formed here by an accelerometer which sends its data to the control unit 46. If the control unit 46 detects, based on the data provided by the motion sensor 445, that the pallet 1 is static and substantially horizontal, then a measurement of the magnetic field is acquired.
  • the control unit 46 compares the measured values, for example by measuring a difference between two successive measurements, to determine the variation in the magnetic field and to compare this difference with a predetermined threshold value stored. The result of the comparison makes it possible to detect the presence of a stacked pallet.
  • a signal corresponding to a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet is then sent by the control unit 46 via the communication device 441, to a communication receiver.
  • the direction of variation of the magnetic field can also be tested. This can make it possible to detect, depending on the direction of variation of the magnetic field, either the placement of a pallet on the pallet under test, or the removal of a pallet on the pallet under test.
  • the value or range of values of the magnetic field picked up by the magnetic field sensor of said pallet in the area extending above the load support plate of said pallet comprises at least the value of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator equipping a pallet identical or similar to said pallet placed on the load support plate of said pallet.

Abstract

Pallet (1) comprising at least one load-supporting plate (2), a base (3) and a tracking device (4), comprising at least one wireless communication device (441), at least one sensor and a control unit (46) configured to acquire data supplied by the sensor(s) and to control the communication device (441) so as to transmit data according to the data supplied by the sensors. The pallet (1) comprises at least one magnetic field generator (47) and one of the sensors is a magnetic field sensor (442) configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load-supporting plate (2) when the pallet (1) is in the positioned state with its base (3) resting on a horizontal flat surface.

Description

Description Description
PALETTE COMPRENANT UN DISPOSITIF DE SUIVI, ENSEMBLE D'AU MOINS DEUX PALETTES ET PROCÉDÉ DE SUIVIPALLET INCLUDING A TRACKING DEVICE, SET OF AT LEAST TWO PALLETS AND TRACKING PROCEDURE
DE PALETTE OF PALLET
[0001] La présente invention concerne une palette dite connectée et un ensemble d'au moins deux palettes superposées. The present invention relates to a so-called connected pallet and a set of at least two superimposed pallets.
[0002] Elle concerne en particulier une palette comprenant au moins un plateau support de charge, une semelle et un dispositif de suivi, le dispositif de suivi comprenant: [0002] It relates in particular to a pallet comprising at least one load support plate, a sole and a tracking device, the tracking device comprising:
- au moins un dispositif de communication permettant par liaison sans fil de transmettre des données, - at least one communication device making it possible to transmit data by wireless link,
- au moins un capteur et - at least one sensor and
- au moins une unité de commande configurée au moins pour acquérir des données fournies par le ou les capteurs et pour commander le dispositif de communication de manière à transmettre des données fonction au moins des données fournies par le ou au moins l’un des capteurs. - at least one control unit configured at least to acquire data supplied by the sensor (s) and to control the communication device so as to transmit data depending at least on the data supplied by the or at least one of the sensors.
[0003] De nombreuses palettes disposent aujourd’hui d’un dispositif de suivi permettant notamment leur géolocalisation comme l’illustre par exemple la demande internationale WO2017/179985. D'autres palettes sont connues comme l'illustrent les documents US 2015/298854, US 2010/147198 ou WO 2019/018714. Toutefois, les solutions actuellement mises en œuvre ne permettent pas de déterminer si la palette est chargée en marchandises ou serait disponible pour une utilisation quelconque. [0003] Many pallets now have a tracking device allowing their geolocation in particular, as illustrated for example by international application WO2017 / 179985. Other pallets are known as illustrated by documents US 2015/298854, US 2010/147198 or WO 2019/018714. However, the solutions currently implemented do not make it possible to determine whether the pallet is loaded with goods or would be available for any use.
[0004] Un but de l’invention est de proposer une palette dont la conception permet de manière simple et rapide d’identifier les conditions d’utilisation d’une palette pour permettre de conclure ou non à sa disponibilité potentielle en vue d’augmenter le temps d’utilisation de ladite palette. An object of the invention is to provide a pallet whose design allows a simple and rapid way to identify the conditions of use of a pallet to make it possible to conclude or not to its potential availability with a view to increasing the time of use of said pallet.
[0005] Un autre but de l’invention est de proposer une palette dont la conception permet de manière simple et rapide d’identifier un état assimilé à un état à vide de la palette. [0005] Another object of the invention is to provide a pallet, the design of which makes it possible, in a simple and rapid manner, to identify a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet.
[0006] A cet effet, l’invention a pour objet une palette comprenant au moins un plateau support de charge, une semelle et un dispositif de suivi, le dispositif de suivi comprenant au moins un dispositif de communication permettant par liaison sans fil de transmettre des données, au moins un capteur et au moins une unité de commande configurée au moins pour acquérir des données fournies par le ou les capteurs et pour commander le dispositif de communication de manière à transmettre des données fonction au moins des données fournies par le ou au moins l’un des capteurs, caractérisée en ce que la palette comprend au moins un générateur de champ magnétique et en ce que le ou au moins l’un des capteurs est un capteur de champ magnétique configuré pour capter un champ magnétique dans une zone s’étendant au-dessus du plateau support de charge à l’état positionné de la palette reposant par sa semelle sur une surface plane horizontale. To this end, the invention relates to a pallet comprising at least one load support plate, a sole and a tracking device, the tracking device comprising at least one communication device allowing by link wirelessly to transmit data, at least one sensor and at least one control unit configured at least to acquire data provided by the sensor (s) and to control the communication device so as to transmit data according to at least the data provided by the or at least one of the sensors, characterized in that the pallet comprises at least one magnetic field generator and in that the or at least one of the sensors is a magnetic field sensor configured to pick up a magnetic field in a zone extending above the load support plate in the position of the pallet resting by its sole on a horizontal flat surface.
[0007] Le principe repose sur le constat que lorsque les palettes ne sont pas utilisées, elles sont généralement stockées à l’état empilé. En conséquence, la présence d’un capteur de champ magnétique et d’un générateur de champ magnétique dans une palette permet, à l’état recouvert du plateau de charge de ladite palette par une palette identique ou similaire, la détection, par le capteur de champ magnétique de la palette inférieure, du champ magnétique généré par le générateur de champ magnétique de la palette supérieure. La présence d’une palette empilée est assimilée pour la palette inférieure à un état à vide de ladite palette inférieure qui traduit sa disponibilité pour une utilisation quelconque. Ainsi, le fait que le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique de la palette soit configuré pour capter un champ magnétique dans une zone s’étendant au- dessus du plateau support de charge à l’état positionné de la palette reposant par sa semelle sur une surface plane horizontale permet à l’état superposé de ladite palette avec une palette identique ou similaire venant à recouvrement au moins partiel de ladite palette, la détection par le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique de ladite palette, du champ magnétique généré par le générateur de champ magnétique équipant la palette disposée au-dessus de la dite palette. La présence d’un capteur de champ magnétique et d’un générateur de champ magnétique dans une palette permet donc de réaliser de manière simple un système de détection d’un état assimilé à vide de ladite palette. Il doit être noté que le générateur de champ magnétique et le capteur de champ magnétique d’une palette sont complémentaires de sorte que le champ magnétique généré par le générateur de champ magnétique peut être capté par le capteur de champ magnétique en fonction de la position relative du capteur de champ magnétique et du générateur de champ magnétique. De même, de préférence, le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique est configuré pour capter un champ magnétique dans une zone s’étendant au-dessus du plateau support de charge à l’état positionné de la palette reposant par sa semelle sur une surface plane horizontale lorsque la valeur du champ magnétique dans ladite zone est supérieure à une valeur prédéterminée. Cette valeur prédéterminée est de préférence choisie en fonction des caractéristiques du champ magnétique généré par le ou au moins l’un des générateurs de champ magnétique équipant la palette. The principle is based on the observation that when the pallets are not used, they are generally stored in the stacked state. Consequently, the presence of a magnetic field sensor and of a magnetic field generator in a pallet allows, in the covered state of the load plate of said pallet by an identical or similar pallet, the detection, by the sensor magnetic field of the lower vane, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator of the upper vane. The presence of a stacked pallet is assimilated for the lower pallet to an empty state of said lower pallet which reflects its availability for any use. Thus, the fact that the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the pallet is configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load support plate in the positioned state of the resting pallet. by its sole on a horizontal flat surface allows the superimposed state of said pallet with an identical or similar pallet coming at least partially covering said pallet, the detection by the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of said pallet, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator equipping the pallet arranged above said pallet. The presence of a magnetic field sensor and of a magnetic field generator in a pallet therefore makes it possible to produce, in a simple manner, a system for detecting a state similar to empty of said pallet. It should be noted that the magnetic field generator and the magnetic field sensor of a paddle are complementary so that the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator can be picked up by the magnetic field sensor as a function of the relative position of the magnetic field sensor and the magnetic field generator. Likewise, preferably, the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors is configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load support plate in the position of the pallet resting by its position. sole on a horizontal flat surface when the value of the magnetic field in said zone is greater than a predetermined value. This predetermined value is preferably chosen as a function of the characteristics of the magnetic field generated by the or at least one of the magnetic field generators fitted to the pallet.
[0008] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le capteur de champ magnétique est un magnétomètre ou un capteur à ampoule Reed. Le capteur de champ magnétique peut donc être un capteur de détection d’un champ magnétique ou un capteur de mesure d’un champ magnétique. [0008] According to one embodiment of the invention, the magnetic field sensor is a magnetometer or a reed bulb sensor. The magnetic field sensor can therefore be a sensor for detecting a magnetic field or a sensor for measuring a magnetic field.
[0009] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le générateur de champ magnétique comprend au moins un aimant, tel qu’un aimant permanent ou un électro aimant. La réalisation du générateur de champ magnétique sous forme d’un aimant permanent limite les risques de panne. [0009] According to one embodiment of the invention, the magnetic field generator comprises at least one magnet, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. The realization of the magnetic field generator in the form of a permanent magnet limits the risk of breakdown.
[0010] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, à l’état positionné de la palette reposant par sa semelle sur une surface plane horizontale, le ou au moins l’un des générateurs de champ magnétique et le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique sont disposés l’un au-dessus de l’autre avec le générateur de champ magnétique s’étendant au-dessous du capteur de champ magnétique. Cette disposition permet de manière simple de détecter la présence d’une palette similaire superposée, le capteur de champ magnétique de la palette inférieure pouvant être placé au plus près du plateau support de charge de la palette inférieure pour être au plus près du générateur de champ magnétique de la palette supérieure. According to one embodiment of the invention, in the position of the pallet resting by its sole on a horizontal flat surface, the or at least one of the magnetic field generators and the or at least the one of the magnetic field sensors are arranged one above the other with the magnetic field generator extending below the magnetic field sensor. This arrangement makes it possible in a simple way to detect the presence of a similar superimposed pallet, the magnetic field sensor of the lower pallet being able to be placed as close as possible to the load support plate of the lower pallet to be as close as possible to the field generator. magnet of the upper pallet.
[0011 ] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le dispositif de suivi comprenant plusieurs capteurs dont au moins un est un capteur de mouvement, l’unité de commande est configurée pour commander le capteur de champ magnétique et/ou acquérir des données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique en fonction au moins des données fournies par le capteur de mouvement. Ainsi, la commande en fonctionnement du capteur de champ magnétique et/ou l’acquisition par l’unité de commande de données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique de la palette sont basées au moins sur la présence ou l’absence de mouvement de la palette. De préférence, le capteur de mouvement de la palette est également un capteur de position de la palette. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tracking device comprising several sensors of which at least one is a movement sensor, the control unit is configured to control the magnetic field sensor and / or acquire data provided by the magnetic field sensor in at least based on the data provided by the motion sensor. Thus, the operating control of the magnetic field sensor and / or the acquisition by the control unit of data supplied by the magnetic field sensor of the pallet are based at least on the presence or absence of movement of the pallet. palette. Preferably, the pallet movement sensor is also a pallet position sensor.
[0012] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, l’unité de commande est configurée : [0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, the control unit is configured:
- pour déterminer en fonction des données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique au moins un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette, cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette identique ou similaire empilée sur ladite palette et - to determine based on the data provided by the magnetic field sensor at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet stacked on said pallet and
- pour commander le dispositif de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette. - to control the communication device so as to transmit at least one piece of data corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet.
[0013] Ainsi, dans le cas où le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique est un magnétomètre, l’unité de commande est configurée pour comparer des données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique et successivement acquises par l’unité de commande , pour déterminer en fonction du résultat de la comparaison au moins un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette, cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette similaire empilée sur ladite palette et pour commander le dispositif de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette. Thus, in the case where the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors is a magnetometer, the control unit is configured to compare data supplied by the magnetic field sensor and successively acquired by the unit control, to determine as a function of the result of the comparison at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of a similar pallet stacked on said pallet and to control the communication device in such a way in transmitting at least one data item corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet.
[0014] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, ladite palette comprend au moins un plot disposé entre le plateau support de charge et la semelle et le ou au moins l’un des plots est un plot dit technique équipé d’au moins une partie du dispositif de suivi. Cette disposition permet d’optimiser la durée de vie du dispositif de suivi. According to one embodiment of the invention, said pallet comprises at least one stud arranged between the load support plate and the sole and the or at least one of the studs is a so-called technical stud equipped with at least part of the monitoring system. This arrangement optimizes the lifespan of the monitoring device.
[0015] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le plot technique est un plot central disposé au niveau du centre du plateau support de charge. Grâce à cette conception, la détection du champ magnétique est facilitée. Il en résulte également une fiabilité accrue du dispositif de suivi. [0016] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le ou au moins l’un des plots dit technique est un plot cylindrique formant un cylindre droit d’axe de révolution orthogonal au plan support de charge du plateau, ledit plot cylindrique étant monté libre à rotation autour d’un axe confondu avec l’axe de révolution dudit cylindre. Ce montage permet de limiter les risques d’endommagement du dispositif de suivi. According to one embodiment of the invention, the technical stud is a central stud arranged at the level of the center of the load support plate. With this design, the detection of the magnetic field is facilitated. This also results in increased reliability of the tracking device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the or at least one of the so-called technical studs is a cylindrical stud forming a right cylinder with an axis of revolution orthogonal to the load support plane of the plate, said cylindrical stud being mounted to rotate freely about an axis coincident with the axis of revolution of said cylinder. This assembly makes it possible to limit the risk of damage to the monitoring device.
[0017] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le ou au moins l’un des plots dit technique comprend, pour l’assemblage d’au moins une partie du dispositif de suivi avec ledit plot technique, au moins une cavité de réception d’au moins une partie du dispositif de suivi, et ladite cavité est de préférence munie en sus d’une ouverture d’accès à ladite cavité pour l’introduction d’au moins une partie du dispositif de suivi à l’intérieur de ladite cavité, d’au moins un orifice de communication de la cavité avec l’extérieur du plot, cet orifice de communication étant un orifice à fonction de vidange de ladite cavité et/ou d’accès supplémentaire à ladite cavité. Cette caractéristique permet un remplacement et/ou une maintenance aisés du dispositif de suivi. According to one embodiment of the invention, the or at least one of said technical pads comprises, for the assembly of at least part of the tracking device with said technical pad, at least one cavity of receiving at least part of the tracking device, and said cavity is preferably provided in addition with an access opening to said cavity for the introduction of at least part of the tracking device inside said cavity, of at least one orifice for communication of the cavity with the outside of the pad, this communication orifice being an orifice having the function of emptying said cavity and / or providing additional access to said cavity. This feature allows easy replacement and / or maintenance of the tracking device.
[0018] L’invention a encore pour objet un ensemble d’au moins deux palettes dites respectivement inférieure et supérieure disposées à l’état superposé, caractérisé en ce que chaque palette est conforme à celle décrite ci-dessus et en ce que le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique de la palette inférieure est configuré pour capter le champ magnétique du ou d’au moins l’un des générateurs de champ magnétique de la palette supérieure. [0018] A further subject of the invention is a set of at least two so-called lower and upper pallets respectively arranged in the superimposed state, characterized in that each pallet conforms to that described above and in that the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the lower vane is configured to sense the magnetic field of the or at least one of the magnetic field generators of the upper vane.
[0019] L’invention a encore pour objet un procédé de suivi de palette, caractérisé en ce que la palette étant telle que décrite ci-dessus, ledit procédé comprend -une étape d’acquisition de données fournies par le ou au moins l'un des capteurs de champ magnétique de la palette, [0019] A further subject of the invention is a method for tracking a pallet, characterized in that the pallet being as described above, said method comprises -a step of acquiring data supplied by the or at least the one of the magnetic field sensors on the pallet,
-une étape de détermination en fonction des données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique au moins d’un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette, cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette identique ou similaire empilée sur ladite palette et a step of determining according to the data supplied by the magnetic field sensor at least a state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet stacked on said pallet and
- une étape de commande du dispositif de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette. Brève description des dessins a step of controlling the communication device so as to transmit at least one data item corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet. Brief description of the drawings
L'invention sera bien comprise à la lecture de la description suivante d'exemples de réalisation, en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels : The invention will be clearly understood on reading the following description of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the appended drawings in which:
[0020] [Fig. 1] représente une vue en perspective en position partiellement éclatée d’une palette conforme à l’invention, [0020] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view in a partially exploded position of a pallet according to the invention,
[0021] [Fig. 2] représente une vue en perspective d’une palette conforme à l’invention, [0021] [Fig. 2] is a perspective view of a pallet according to the invention,
[0022] [Fig. 3] représente une vue en perspective d’un ensemble de deux palettes disposées à l’état superposé, [0022] [Fig. 3] is a perspective view of a set of two pallets arranged in a superimposed state,
[0023] [Fig. 4] représente une vue schématique de deux plots techniques appartenant l’un, à l’une des palettes, l’autre, à l’autre des palettes de deux palettes superposées, [0023] [Fig. 4] shows a schematic view of two technical blocks, one belonging to one of the pallets, the other to the other of the pallets of two superimposed pallets,
[0024] [Fig. 5] représente de manière schématique sous forme de blocs l’architecture du dispositif de suivi, [0024] [Fig. 5] schematically represents in the form of blocks the architecture of the monitoring device,
[0025] [Fig. 6] représente sous forme de vues en coupe les étapes de montage d’une palette, [0025] [Fig. 6] represents in the form of cross-sectional views the stages of assembly of a pallet,
[0026] [Fig. 7] représente sous forme d’un logigramme, les différentes étapes pour l’émission de données par le dispositif de communication. [0026] [Fig. 7] represents in the form of a flowchart, the different steps for the transmission of data by the communication device.
[0027] Comme mentionné ci-dessus, l’invention a pour objet une palette 1 dite connectée. Cette palette 1 comprend, de manière en soi connue, une semelle 3 destinée à former la surface d’appui au sol de la palette 1 et un plateau 2 support de charge surmontant ladite semelle 3. As mentioned above, the invention relates to a so-called connected pallet 1. This pallet 1 comprises, in a manner known per se, a sole 3 intended to form the bearing surface on the ground of the pallet 1 and a load support plate 2 surmounting said sole 3.
[0028] Ce plateau 2 support de charge présente une face du dessus destinée à recevoir les charges et une face du dessous tournée vers la semelle 3. This load support plate 2 has an upper face intended to receive the loads and a lower face turned towards the sole 3.
[0029] La palette 1 comprend encore un dispositif 4 de suivi pour la réalisation d’une palette 1 dite connectée. Ce dispositif 4 de suivi comprend au moins un dispositif 441 de communication permettant, par liaison sans fil, de transmettre des données encore appelées informations, un ou plusieurs capteurs 44 et au moins une unité 46 de commande configurée pour acquérir des données fournies par le ou les capteurs 44 et pour commander le dispositif 441 de communication de manière à transmettre des données ou informations, fonction au moins des données fournies par le ou au moins d’un des capteurs 44. The pallet 1 further comprises a tracking device 4 for the production of a so-called connected pallet 1. This tracking device 4 comprises at least one communication device 441 making it possible, by wireless link, to transmit data also called information, one or more sensors 44 and at least one control unit 46 configured to acquire data supplied by the or the sensors 44 and to control the communication device 441 so as to transmit data or information, depending at least on the data supplied by the or at least one of the sensors 44.
[0030] Le dispositif 441 de communication comprend un émetteur radio qui peut se présenter sous forme d’un module radio intégré ou associé à l’unité 46 de commande de manière en soi connue. Cet émetteur radio est généralement configuré pour communiquer selon un protocole de communication du type courte portée et/ou basse consommation. The communication device 441 comprises a radio transmitter which may be in the form of an integrated radio module or associated with the control unit 46 in a manner known per se. This radio transmitter is generally configured to communicate according to a communication protocol of the short range and / or low consumption type.
[0031] Ainsi, le réseau de communication avec lequel le dispositif 441 de communication est configuré pour communiquer peut être l’un des réseaux suivants : Lora, Sigfox, Ingénu, ou tout autre type de réseau LPWAN (pour Low- Power Wide Area Network en anglais), ou encore LTN (pour Low Throughput Networks en anglais), ou LPWN (pour Low Power Wireless Network en anglais) tels que définis notamment par l'ETSI (pour European Télécommunications Standards Institute en anglais) ou bien encore par un réseau wifi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-wave ou similaire. Thus, the communication network with which the communication device 441 is configured to communicate can be one of the following networks: Lora, Sigfox, Ingénu, or any other type of LPWAN network (for Low-Power Wide Area Network in English), or LTN (for Low Throughput Networks in English), or LPWN (for Low Power Wireless Network in English) as defined in particular by ETSI (for European Telecommunications Standards Institute in English) or even by a network wifi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-wave or similar.
[0032] Avantageusement, ledit émetteur radio se présente sous forme d’un dispositif électronique, comprenant une puce, par exemple, reliée à une antenne à travers, par exemple, un circuit d'adaptation. Advantageously, said radio transmitter is in the form of an electronic device, comprising a chip, for example, connected to an antenna through, for example, an adaptation circuit.
[0033] Ladite unité 46 de commande se présente sous la forme d’un système électronique et/ou informatique qui comprend par exemple un microprocesseur ou un microcontrôleur et une mémoire de travail. Selon un aspect particulier, l’unité 46 de commande peut se présenter sous la forme d’un automate programmable. Autrement dit, les fonctions et étapes décrites peuvent être mises en œuvre sous forme de programme informatique ou via des composants matériels (p. ex. des réseaux de portes programmables). En particulier, les fonctions et étapes opérées par l’unité 46 de commande ou ses modules peuvent être réalisées par des jeux d’instructions ou modules informatiques implémentés dans un processeur ou contrôleur ou être réalisées par des composants électroniques dédiés ou des composants de type FPGA ou ASIC. Il est aussi possible de combiner des parties informatiques et des parties électroniques. Said control unit 46 is in the form of an electronic and / or computer system which comprises for example a microprocessor or a microcontroller and a working memory. According to a particular aspect, the control unit 46 can be in the form of a programmable logic controller. In other words, the functions and steps described can be implemented as a computer program or via hardware components (eg programmable door arrays). In particular, the functions and steps performed by the control unit 46 or its modules can be performed by computer instruction sets or modules implemented in a processor or controller or be performed by dedicated electronic components or FPGA type components. or ASIC. It is also possible to combine computer parts and electronic parts.
[0034] Lorsqu’il est précisé que l’unité ou des moyens ou modules de ladite unité sont configurés pour réaliser une opération donnée, cela signifie que l’unité comprend des instructions informatiques et les moyens d’exécution correspondants qui permettent de réaliser ladite opération et/ou que l’unité comprend des composants électroniques correspondants. When it is specified that the unit or means or modules of said unit are configured to perform a given operation, this means that the unit comprises computer instructions and the corresponding means of execution which make it possible to carry out said operation and / or that the unit comprises corresponding electronic components.
[0035] De préférence, le dispositif 4 de suivi se présente sous forme d’un boîtier et le dispositif 441 de communication, le ou les capteurs et l’unité 46 de commande sont logés à l’intérieur du boîtier. Preferably, the tracking device 4 is in the form of a housing and the communication device 441, the sensor (s) and the control unit 46 are housed inside the housing.
[0036] Le dispositif 4 de suivi est un dispositif 4 de suivi autonome. Ce dispositif 4 de suivi comprend donc encore une alimentation telle qu’une batterie 9, ladite batterie étant logée à l’intérieur du boîtier. The tracking device 4 is an autonomous tracking device 4. This tracking device 4 therefore also includes a power supply such as a battery 9, said battery being housed inside the housing.
[0037] La palette 1 est généralement destinée à être stockée sur un site logistique, tel qu’une plateforme, qui comprend une pluralité de récepteurs radio, tels qu’un réseau d’antennes, disséminés sur le site, avec lesquels ledit émetteur radio peut communiquer. The pallet 1 is generally intended to be stored on a logistics site, such as a platform, which comprises a plurality of radio receivers, such as an array of antennas, disseminated on the site, with which said radio transmitter can communicate.
[0038] Les données reçues par lesdits récepteurs sont aptes à être transmises à un terminal déporté, tel qu’un téléphone portable ou un ordinateur et à être traitées par un système d’informations dédié pour permettre la collecte d’informations individuelles ou collectives concernant les palettes ainsi gérées. Un tel système de logistique ne sera pas décrit en détail car il est bien connu à ceux versés dans cet art, comme l’illustre la demande internationale WO 2017/179985. The data received by said receivers are able to be transmitted to a remote terminal, such as a mobile phone or a computer and to be processed by a dedicated information system to allow the collection of individual or collective information concerning the pallets thus managed. Such a logistics system will not be described in detail as it is well known to those skilled in the art, as illustrated by international application WO 2017/179985.
[0039] Il doit être noté que généralement, la palette comprend un support de données d’identification par lecture sans contact, tel qu’une radio-étiquette, et l’émetteur radio comprend un identifiant unique, cet identifiant étant mémorisé dans le support de données d’identification. It should be noted that generally, the pallet comprises an identification data medium by contactless reading, such as a radio tag, and the radio transmitter comprises a unique identifier, this identifier being stored in the medium. of identification data.
[0040] Comme mentionné ci-dessus, le dispositif 4 de suivi de la palette 1 peut comprendre un ou plusieurs capteurs 44. L’un des capteurs, représenté en 442 aux figures, est un capteur de champ magnétique. As mentioned above, the device 4 for tracking the pallet 1 can include one or more sensors 44. One of the sensors, shown at 442 in the figures, is a magnetic field sensor.
[0041] À titre d’exemple, ce capteur 442 de champ magnétique peut être un magnétomètre pour mesurer un champ magnétique ou un capteur à ampoule Reed, c’est-à-dire un capteur de détection d’un champ magnétique configuré pour changer d’état à la manière d’un interrupteur, lorsque le champ magnétique détecté est supérieur à une valeur prédéterminée. [0042] La palette 1 comprend encore au moins un générateur 47 de champ magnétique. Le ou chaque générateur 47 de champ magnétique peut être formé par un aimant, tel qu’un aimant permanent ou un électro-aimant, en particulier une bobine. De préférence, la solution avec des aimants permanents formés par des matériaux ferromagnétiques et/ou ferrimagnétiques est retenue. By way of example, this magnetic field sensor 442 can be a magnetometer for measuring a magnetic field or a reed bulb sensor, that is to say a sensor for detecting a magnetic field configured to change state in the manner of a switch, when the detected magnetic field is greater than a predetermined value. The pallet 1 further comprises at least one magnetic field generator 47. The or each magnetic field generator 47 can be formed by a magnet, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, in particular a coil. Preferably, the solution with permanent magnets formed by ferromagnetic and / or ferrimagnetic materials is retained.
[0043] Le ou au moins l’un des capteurs 442 de champ magnétique est configuré pour détecter au moins un champ magnétique autre, c’est-à-dire différent du champ magnétique généré par le ou les générateurs 47 de champ magnétique équipant la palette. En particulier, le ou au moins l’un des capteurs 442 de champ magnétique de la palette est configuré pour capter un champ magnétique dans une zone représentée par une partie hachurée à la figure 2, cette zone s’étendant au-dessus du plateau de support de charge, c’est-à-dire côté face du dessus du plateau de support de charge à l’état positionné de la palette 1 reposant par sa semelle 3 sur une surface plane horizontale. The or at least one of the magnetic field sensors 442 is configured to detect at least one other magnetic field, that is to say different from the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator or generators 47 equipping the palette. In particular, the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors 442 of the pallet is configured to pick up a magnetic field in an area represented by a hatched part in FIG. 2, this area extending above the plate. load support, that is to say the face side of the top of the load support plate in the position of the pallet 1 resting by its sole 3 on a horizontal flat surface.
[0044] La palette 1 comprend donc, côté face du dessus du plateau 2 support de charges, un emplacement apte à être occupé par un générateur de champ magnétique d’une palette, identique ou similaire, posée sur ladite palette et la zone dans laquelle le capteur de champ magnétique est configuré pour capter un champ magnétique couvre au moins une partie dudit emplacement. Comme les palettes sont généralement identiques, l’emplacement du générateur de champ magnétique est parfaitement maîtrisé. [0044] The pallet 1 therefore comprises, on the face side of the top of the load support plate 2, a location suitable for being occupied by a magnetic field generator of a pallet, identical or similar, placed on said pallet and the area in which the magnetic field sensor is configured to sense a magnetic field covering at least part of said location. As the pallets are generally identical, the location of the magnetic field generator is perfectly controlled.
[0045] Grâce à cette conception, dans un ensemble de deux palettes 1 disposées à l’état superposé, le ou au moins l’un des capteurs de champ magnétique de la palette inférieure est configuré pour capter le champ magnétique du ou d’au moins l’un des générateurs de champ magnétique de la palette supérieure. Thanks to this design, in a set of two pallets 1 arranged in the superimposed state, the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors of the lower pallet is configured to pick up the magnetic field of the or at minus one of the magnetic field generators on the upper vane.
[0046] Généralement, pour optimiser la mesure et/ou la détection d’un champ magnétique par le capteur 442 de champ magnétique, à l’état positionné de la palette 1 reposant par sa semelle sur une surface plane horizontale, le générateur 47 de champ magnétique et le ou les capteur(s) 442 de champ magnétique sont disposés l’un au-dessus de l’autre avec le générateur 47 de champ magnétique s’étendant au-dessous du capteur 442 de champ magnétique. [0047] Bien évidemment, le ou les capteur(s) 442 de champ magnétique et le ou les aimant(s) du générateur 47 de champ magnétique peuvent être disposés en plusieurs emplacements de la palette 1. Generally, to optimize the measurement and / or detection of a magnetic field by the magnetic field sensor 442, in the positioned state of the pallet 1 resting by its sole on a horizontal flat surface, the generator 47 of magnetic field and magnetic field sensor (s) 442 are disposed one above the other with magnetic field generator 47 extending below magnetic field sensor 442. Obviously, the magnetic field sensor (s) 442 and the magnet (s) of the magnetic field generator 47 can be arranged in several locations on the pallet 1.
[0048] De préférence, toutefois, la palette 1 comprend au moins un plot, en l’occurrence ici plusieurs plots représentés en 51 et 52 aux figures et disposés entre le plateau 2 support de charge et la semelle 3, et l’un des plots, dit technique, représenté en 52 aux figures, est équipé d’au moins une partie du dispositif 4 de suivi. Ainsi, le capteur 442 de champ magnétique est associé audit plot 52 technique. Dans l'exemple représenté, il en est de même pour le générateur 47 de champ magnétique. Preferably, however, the pallet 1 comprises at least one stud, in this case several studs shown at 51 and 52 in the figures and arranged between the load support plate 2 and the sole 3, and one of the pads, said technique, shown at 52 in the figures, is equipped with at least part of the tracking device 4. Thus, the magnetic field sensor 442 is associated with said technical pad 52. In the example shown, the same is true for the magnetic field generator 47.
[0049] Dans les exemples représentés, le plot 52 technique est un plot central disposé au niveau du centre du plateau 2 support de charge. Ce plot technique est un plot cylindrique formant un cylindre droit d’axe de révolution orthogonal au plan support de charge du plateau de support de charge, ledit plot cylindrique étant monté libre à rotation autour d’un axe confondu avec l’axe de révolution dudit cylindre. In the examples shown, the technical pad 52 is a central pad arranged at the level of the center of the load support plate 2. This technical stud is a cylindrical stud forming a right cylinder with an axis of revolution orthogonal to the load bearing plane of the load bearing plate, said cylindrical stud being mounted to rotate freely about an axis coincident with the axis of revolution of said cylinder.
[0050] Ce plot 52 technique comprend un alésage 10 central de réception d’un organe 11 de liaison reliant le plateau 2 support de charge à la semelle 3. Cet organe 11 de liaison forme l’axe autour duquel ledit plot 52 technique est monté libre à rotation. Cet organe 11 de liaison est ici formé par un rivet. This technical stud 52 comprises a central bore 10 for receiving a connecting member 11 connecting the load support plate 2 to the sole 3. This connecting member 11 forms the axis around which said technical stud 52 is mounted free to rotate. This connecting member 11 is here formed by a rivet.
[0051] Ce plot 52 technique comprend, pour l’assemblage d’au moins une partie du dispositif 4 de suivi avec ledit plot 52 technique, au moins une cavité 6 de réception d’au moins une partie du dispositif 4 de suivi. Ladite cavité 6 est de préférence munie en sus d’une ouverture 7 d’accès à ladite cavité 6 pour l’introduction d’au moins une partie du dispositif 4 de suivi à l’intérieur de ladite cavité 6, d’au moins un orifice 8 de communication de la cavité 6 avec l’extérieur du plot 52 technique. Cet orifice 8 de communication est un orifice à fonction de vidange de ladite cavité 6 et/ou d’accès supplémentaire à ladite cavité 6. This technical pad 52 comprises, for the assembly of at least part of the tracking device 4 with said technical pad 52, at least one cavity 6 for receiving at least part of the tracking device 4. Said cavity 6 is preferably provided in addition with an opening 7 for access to said cavity 6 for the introduction of at least part of the tracking device 4 inside said cavity 6, with at least one orifice 8 for communication of the cavity 6 with the outside of the technical stud 52. This communication orifice 8 is an orifice with the function of emptying said cavity 6 and / or providing additional access to said cavity 6.
[0052] L’ouverture 7 d’accès à la cavité 6 et l’orifice 8 de communication avec la cavité 6 sont ménagés, l’un à l’une des extrémités, l’autre à l’autre des extrémités dudit cylindre. [0053] Ainsi, l’expulsion du boîtier constitutif du dispositif 4 de suivi de la cavité 6 du plot 52 technique peut, après démontage du plateau 2 support de charge, s’effectuer à travers l’orifice 8 de communication par simple poussée exercée sur ledit boîtier en direction de l’ouverture 7 d’accès à la cavité 6. Le boîtier peut ainsi être sorti pour permettre, par exemple, un changement de la batterie. The opening 7 for access to the cavity 6 and the orifice 8 for communication with the cavity 6 are provided, one at one end, the other at the other of the ends of said cylinder. Thus, the expulsion of the component box of the device 4 for tracking the cavity 6 of the technical stud 52 can, after removal of the load support plate 2, be effected through the communication orifice 8 by simple thrust exerted on said housing in the direction of the opening 7 for access to the cavity 6. The housing can thus be removed to allow, for example, a change of the battery.
[0054] L’assemblage de la semelle 3, du plot 52 technique et du plateau 2 support de charge peut s’effectuer comme illustré à la figure 4. La première étape peut comprendre l’insertion de l’organe 11 de liaison, tel qu’un rivet, destiné à relier le plateau 2 support de charge à la semelle 3 en passant par l’alésage 10 central du plot 52 technique dans la semelle 3 comme illustré dans le schéma du haut de la figure 4. The assembly of the sole 3, of the technical block 52 and of the load support plate 2 can be carried out as illustrated in FIG. 4. The first step can include the insertion of the connecting member 11, such as a rivet, intended to connect the load support plate 2 to the sole 3 through the central bore 10 of the technical stud 52 in the sole 3 as illustrated in the top diagram of FIG. 4.
[0055] Le plot 52 technique avec le dispositif 4 de suivi associé est enfilé sur ledit organe 11 de liaison et le plateau 2 support de charge est rapporté sur l’extrémité de l’organe 11 de liaison en saillie du plot 52 technique, avant d’être immobilisé par rivetage à l’aide dudit organe 11 de liaison. Ainsi, un processus industriel d’assemblage de la palette peut être envisagé. The technical pad 52 with the associated tracking device 4 is threaded onto said connecting member 11 and the load support plate 2 is attached to the end of the connecting member 11 projecting from the technical pad 52, before to be immobilized by riveting using said connecting member 11. Thus, an industrial process of assembling the pallet can be envisaged.
[0056] Dans les exemples représentés, le dispositif 4 de suivi comprend plusieurs capteurs 44. L’un des capteurs, représenté en 445 aux figures, est un capteur de mouvement. L'autre capteur représenté en 443 est un capteur de température tandis que le capteur 444 est un capteur d'humidité. Ce capteur 445 de mouvement est ici formé par un accéléromètre et forme donc à la fois un capteur de mouvement et de position. L’unité 46 de commande est configurée pour acquérir les données formées par ce capteur 445 de mouvement et détecter, en fonction des données fournies, un état statique et à l’horizontale de la palette 1. In the examples shown, the tracking device 4 comprises several sensors 44. One of the sensors, shown at 445 in the figures, is a movement sensor. The other sensor shown at 443 is a temperature sensor while the sensor 444 is a humidity sensor. This movement sensor 445 is here formed by an accelerometer and therefore forms both a movement and a position sensor. The control unit 46 is configured to acquire the data formed by this motion sensor 445 and to detect, based on the data provided, a static and horizontal state of the pallet 1.
[0057] L’unité 46 de commande est configurée pour commander le capteur 442 de champ magnétique et/ou acquérir des données fournies par le capteur 442 de champ magnétique en fonction au moins des données fournies par le capteur 445 de mouvement. En particulier, l’unité 46 de commande est configurée pour commander le capteur 442 de champ magnétique, en particulier réveiller le capteur 442 de champ magnétique dans le cas d’un magnétomètre pour la réalisation d’une mesure, lorsque la palette 1 est détectée comme étant statique et à l’horizontale ou sensiblement à l’horizontale à plus ou moins 25° près. [0058] De manière similaire, l’unité 46 de commande est configurée pour, dans le cas d’un capteur à ampoule Reed, acquérir une donnée du capteur de champ magnétique et détecter son état lorsque la palette est détectée comme étant statique et à l’horizontale ou sensiblement à l’horizontale à plus ou moins 25° près. Il en résulte ainsi une économie d’énergie. The control unit 46 is configured to control the magnetic field sensor 442 and / or acquire data supplied by the magnetic field sensor 442 based at least on the data supplied by the movement sensor 445. In particular, the control unit 46 is configured to control the magnetic field sensor 442, in particular to wake up the magnetic field sensor 442 in the case of a magnetometer for carrying out a measurement, when the pallet 1 is detected. as being static and horizontal or substantially horizontal to within plus or minus 25 °. [0058] Similarly, the control unit 46 is configured to, in the case of a reed bulb sensor, acquire data from the magnetic field sensor and detect its state when the pallet is detected as being static and to horizontal or substantially horizontal to within plus or minus 25 °. This results in energy savings.
[0059] À partir des données fournies par le ou les capteurs 442 de champ magnétique à l’unité 46 de commande, l’unité 46 de commande est configurée pour déterminer, en fonction des données fournies par le ou les capteur(s) de champ magnétique, au moins un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette, cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette identique ou similaire empilée sur ladite palette et pour commander le dispositif 441 de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette 1. From the data supplied by the magnetic field sensor (s) 442 to the control unit 46, the control unit 46 is configured to determine, based on the data supplied by the sensor (s) of magnetic field, at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet stacked on said pallet and for controlling the communication device 441 so as to transmit at least one datum corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet 1.
[0060] Ainsi, en pratique, lorsque le capteur 442 de champ magnétique est un capteur à ampoule Reed, le changement d’état de l’interrupteur formé par ledit capteur génère un signal capté par l’unité 46 de commande. Ce signal est généré lorsque le champ magnétique détecté par le capteur 442 de champ magnétique est supérieur à une valeur prédéterminée. Cette valeur prédéterminée correspond au moins à la valeur du champ magnétique généré par le générateur 47 de champ magnétique d’une palette 1 identique ou similaire, à l’état posé de cette palette sur le plateau 2 support de charge de ladite palette 1. Ainsi, le changement d’état s’opère quand une palette équipée d’un générateur de champ magnétique est posée sur le plateau de charge de la palette. Ce changement d’état matérialise un état assimilé à un état à vide de la palette. En effet, comme la palette est surmontée d’une palette identique ou similaire, elle est considérée comme disponible. Thus, in practice, when the magnetic field sensor 442 is a reed bulb sensor, the change of state of the switch formed by said sensor generates a signal picked up by the control unit 46. This signal is generated when the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 442 is greater than a predetermined value. This predetermined value corresponds at least to the value of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator 47 of an identical or similar pallet 1, in the posed state of this pallet on the load-bearing plate 2 of said pallet 1. Thus , the change of state takes place when a pallet equipped with a magnetic field generator is placed on the load plate of the pallet. This change of state materializes a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet. Indeed, as the pallet is surmounted by an identical or similar pallet, it is considered as available.
[0061] L’information est donc transmise via le dispositif 441 de communication à un récepteur puis à un utilisateur qui décidera de l’utilisation de ladite palette. The information is therefore transmitted via the communication device 441 to a receiver and then to a user who will decide on the use of said pallet.
[0062] Lorsque le capteur 442 de champ magnétique est un magnétomètre, le processus est similaire. Dans ce cas, l’unité 46 de commande qui acquiert les données fournies par le capteur 442 de champ magnétique peut détecter la présence d’une palette sur le plateau 2 de charge de ladite palette 1 , à partir de mesures successives du champ magnétique et de la variation de champ magnétique entre lesdites mesures. Un exemple d’un tel processus est décrit à la figure 7. When the magnetic field sensor 442 is a magnetometer, the process is similar. In this case, the control unit 46 which acquires the data supplied by the magnetic field sensor 442 can detect the presence of a pallet on the load plate 2 of said pallet 1, from successive measurements of the magnetic field and of the variation of the magnetic field between said measurements. An example of such a process is depicted in Figure 7.
[0063] Le magnétomètre est initialisé et une mesure de la valeur du champ magnétique de référence est acquise par l’unité 46 de commande. Le mouvement et la position de la palette 1 sont testés à l’aide du capteur 445 de mouvement formé ici par un accéléromètre qui adresse ses données à l’unité 46 de commande. Si l’unité 46 de commande détecte, en fonction des données fournies par le capteur 445 de mouvement, que la palette 1 est statique et sensiblement à l’horizontale, alors une mesure du champ magnétique est acquise. L’unité 46 de commande compare les valeurs mesurées, par exemple par mesure d’une différence entre deux mesures successives, pour déterminer la variation du champ magnétique et comparer cette différence avec une valeur seuil prédéterminée mémorisée. Le résultat de la comparaison permet de détecter la présence d’une palette empilée. Un signal correspondant à un état assimilé à un état à vide de la palette est alors adressé par l’unité 46 de commande via le dispositif 441 de communication, à un récepteur de communication. The magnetometer is initialized and a measurement of the value of the reference magnetic field is acquired by the control unit 46. The movement and position of the pallet 1 are tested using the motion sensor 445 formed here by an accelerometer which sends its data to the control unit 46. If the control unit 46 detects, based on the data provided by the motion sensor 445, that the pallet 1 is static and substantially horizontal, then a measurement of the magnetic field is acquired. The control unit 46 compares the measured values, for example by measuring a difference between two successive measurements, to determine the variation in the magnetic field and to compare this difference with a predetermined threshold value stored. The result of the comparison makes it possible to detect the presence of a stacked pallet. A signal corresponding to a state assimilated to an empty state of the pallet is then sent by the control unit 46 via the communication device 441, to a communication receiver.
[0064] Il doit être noté que le sens de variation du champ magnétique peut également être testé. Cela peut permettre de détecter, suivant le sens de variation du champ magnétique, soit la mise en place d’une palette sur la palette en cours de test, soit l’enlèvement d’une palette sur la palette en cours de test. It should be noted that the direction of variation of the magnetic field can also be tested. This can make it possible to detect, depending on the direction of variation of the magnetic field, either the placement of a pallet on the pallet under test, or the removal of a pallet on the pallet under test.
[0065] Si la valeur absolue de variation de champ magnétique n'est pas supérieure à une valeur seuil prédéterminée, on procède à un nouveau cycle de test identique à celui décrit ci-dessus. Ainsi, la présence d’un capteur de champ magnétique tel que décrit ci-dessus permet la détection aisée d’un état assimilé à vide d’une palette. Bien évidemment, d’autres processus de test peuvent être mis en œuvre à partir des données fournies par le capteur de champ magnétique, pour détecter la présence d’une palette posée sur la palette en cours de test, sans sortir du cadre de l’invention. If the absolute value of the variation of the magnetic field is not greater than a predetermined threshold value, a new test cycle identical to that described above is carried out. Thus, the presence of a magnetic field sensor as described above allows easy detection of an empty state of a pallet. Obviously, other test processes can be implemented from the data provided by the magnetic field sensor, to detect the presence of a pallet placed on the pallet under test, without going beyond the scope of the invention.
[0066] La valeur ou plage de valeurs du champ magnétique capté par le capteur de champ magnétique de ladite palette dans la zone s’étendant au-dessus du plateau support de charge de ladite palette comprend au moins la valeur du champ magnétique généré par le générateur de champ magnétique équipant une palette identique ou similaire à ladite palette posée sur le plateau support de charge de ladite palette. The value or range of values of the magnetic field picked up by the magnetic field sensor of said pallet in the area extending above the load support plate of said pallet comprises at least the value of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator equipping a pallet identical or similar to said pallet placed on the load support plate of said pallet.

Claims

Revendications Claims
[Revendication 1] Palette (1) comprenant au moins un plateau (2) support de charge, une semelle (3) et un dispositif (4) de suivi, le dispositif (4) de suivi comprenant au moins un dispositif (441) de communication permettant par liaison sans fil de transmettre des données, au moins un capteur (44) et au moins une unité (46) de commande configurée au moins pour acquérir des données fournies par le ou les capteurs (44) et pour commander le dispositif[Claim 1] Pallet (1) comprising at least one load-supporting plate (2), a sole (3) and a tracking device (4), the tracking device (4) comprising at least one device (441) for communication enabling wireless transmission of data, at least one sensor (44) and at least one control unit (46) configured at least to acquire data provided by the sensor (s) (44) and to control the device
(441) de communication de manière à transmettre des données fonction au moins des données fournies par le ou au moins l’un des capteurs (44), caractérisée en ce que la palette (1) comprend au moins un générateur (47) de champ magnétique et en ce que le ou au moins l’un des capteurs (44) est un capteur (442) de champ magnétique configuré pour capter un champ magnétique dans une zone s’étendant au-dessus du plateau (2) support de charge à l’état positionné de la palette (1) reposant par sa semelle (3) sur une surface plane horizontale. (441) communication so as to transmit data depending at least on the data supplied by the or at least one of the sensors (44), characterized in that the pallet (1) comprises at least one field generator (47) magnetic field and in that the or at least one of the sensors (44) is a magnetic field sensor (442) configured to sense a magnetic field in an area extending above the load bearing plate (2) to the positioned state of the pallet (1) resting by its sole (3) on a horizontal flat surface.
[Revendication 2] Palette (1 ) selon la revendication 1 , caractérisée en ce que le capteur (442) de champ magnétique est un magnétomètre ou un capteur à ampoule Reed. [Claim 2] Pallet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnetic field sensor (442) is a magnetometer or a reed bulb sensor.
[Revendication 3] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisée en ce que le générateur (47) de champ magnétique comprend au moins un aimant, tel qu’un aimant permanent ou un électro aimant. [Claim 3] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the magnetic field generator (47) comprises at least one magnet, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.
[Revendication 4] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisée en ce qu’à l’état positionné de la palette (1) reposant par sa semelle (3) sur une surface plane horizontale, le ou au moins l’un des générateurs (47) de champ magnétique et le ou au moins l’un des capteurs[Claim 4] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in the positioned state of the pallet (1) resting by its sole (3) on a horizontal flat surface, the or minus one of the magnetic field generators (47) and the or at least one of the sensors
(442) de champ magnétique sont disposés l’un au-dessus de l’autre avec le générateur (47) de champ magnétique s’étendant au-dessous du capteur (442) de champ magnétique. (442) magnetic field are arranged one above the other with the magnetic field generator (47) extending below the magnetic field sensor (442).
[Revendication 5] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisée en ce que le dispositif (4) de suivi comprenant plusieurs capteurs (44) dont au moins un est un capteur (445) de mouvement, l’unité (46) de commande est configurée pour commander le capteur (442) de champ magnétique et/ou acquérir des données fournies par le capteur (442) de champ magnétique en fonction au moins des données fournies par le capteur (445) de mouvement. [Claim 5] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the tracking device (4) comprising several sensors (44), at least one of which is a movement sensor (445), the control unit (46) is configured to control the magnetic field sensor (442) and / or acquire data provided by the magnetic field sensor (442). magnetic field as a function of at least the data supplied by the motion sensor (445).
[Revendication 6] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisée en ce que l’unité (46) de commande est configurée : [Claim 6] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control unit (46) is configured:
- pour déterminer en fonction des données fournies par le capteur (442) de champ magnétique au moins un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette (1), cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette (1) identique ou similaire empilée sur ladite palette (1) et - to determine as a function of the data supplied by the magnetic field sensor (442) at least one state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet (1), this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet (1) stacked on said pallet (1) and
- pour commander le dispositif (441 ) de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette (1). - To control the communication device (441) so as to transmit at least one piece of data corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet (1).
[Revendication 7] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisée en ce que ladite palette (1) comprend au moins un plot (51, 52) disposé entre le plateau (2) support de charge et la semelle (3) et en ce que le ou au moins l’un (52) des plots (51 , 52) est un plot dit technique équipé d’au moins une partie du dispositif (4) de suivi. [Claim 7] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said pallet (1) comprises at least one stud (51, 52) arranged between the load support plate (2) and the sole (3) and in that the or at least one (52) of the pads (51, 52) is a so-called technical pad equipped with at least part of the tracking device (4).
[Revendication 8] Palette (1) selon la revendication 7, caractérisée en ce que le plot (52) technique est un plot central disposé au niveau du centre du plateau (2) support de charge. [Claim 8] Pallet (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the technical stud (52) is a central stud arranged at the level of the center of the load support plate (2).
[Revendication 9] Palette (1 ) selon l’une des revendications 7 ou 8, caractérisée en ce que le ou au moins l’un (52) des plots dit technique est un plot cylindrique formant un cylindre droit d’axe de révolution orthogonal au plan support de charge du plateau (2), ledit plot cylindrique étant monté libre à rotation autour d’un axe confondu avec l’axe de révolution dudit cylindre.[Claim 9] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the or at least one (52) of said technical studs is a cylindrical stud forming a right cylinder with an orthogonal axis of revolution at the load support plane of the plate (2), said cylindrical stud being mounted to rotate freely about an axis coincident with the axis of revolution of said cylinder.
[Revendication 10] Palette (1) selon l’une des revendications 7 à 9, caractérisée en ce que le ou au moins l’un (52) des plots dit technique comprend, pour l’assemblage d’au moins une partie du dispositif (4) de suivi avec ledit plot (52) technique, au moins une cavité (6) de réception d’au moins une partie du dispositif (4) de suivi, et en ce que ladite cavité (6) est de préférence munie en sus d’une ouverture (7) d’accès à ladite cavité (6) pour l’introduction d’au moins une partie du dispositif de suivi à l’intérieur de ladite cavité (6), d’au moins un orifice (8) de communication de la cavité (6) avec l’extérieur du plot (52) technique, cet orifice (8) de communication étant un orifice à fonction de vidange de ladite cavité (6) et/ou d’accès supplémentaire à ladite cavité (6). [Claim 10] Pallet (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the or at least one (52) of said technical studs comprises, for the assembly of at least part of the device (4) with said technical stud (52), at least one cavity (6) for receiving at least part of the tracking device (4), and in that said cavity (6) is preferably provided with plus an opening (7) for access to said cavity (6) for the introduction of at least part of the tracking device inside said cavity (6), at least one orifice (8 ) communication of the cavity (6) with the outside of the technical stud (52), this communication orifice (8) being a orifice with the function of emptying said cavity (6) and / or providing additional access to said cavity (6).
[Revendication 11 ] Ensemble d’au moins deux palettes (1 ) dites respectivement inférieure et supérieure disposées à l’état superposé, caractérisé en ce que chaque palette (1 ) est conforme à l’une des revendications 1 à 10 et en ce que le ou au moins l’un des capteurs (442) de champ magnétique de la palette (1) inférieure est configuré pour capter le champ magnétique du ou d’au moins l’un des générateurs (47) de champ magnétique de la palette (1) supérieure. [Revendication 12] Procédé de suivi de palette, caractérisé en ce que la palette étant conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 10, ledit procédé comprend [Claim 11] Set of at least two pallets (1) respectively said lower and upper arranged in the superimposed state, characterized in that each pallet (1) conforms to one of claims 1 to 10 and in that the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors (442) of the lower vane (1) is configured to sense the magnetic field of the or at least one of the magnetic field generators (47) of the vane ( 1) superior. [Claim 12] A method of following a pallet, characterized in that the pallet being in accordance with one of claims 1 to 10, said method comprises
-une étape d’acquisition de données fournies par le ou au moins l'un des capteurs (442) de champ magnétique de la palette (1), -une étape de détermination en fonction des données fournies par le capteur-a step of acquiring data supplied by the or at least one of the magnetic field sensors (442) of the pallet (1), -a determination step based on the data supplied by the sensor
(442) de champ magnétique au moins d’un état assimilé à un état à vide de ladite palette, cet état correspondant à la présence d’une palette identique ou similaire empilée sur ladite palette (1) et (442) magnetic field at least of a state assimilated to an empty state of said pallet, this state corresponding to the presence of an identical or similar pallet stacked on said pallet (1) and
- une étape de commande du dispositif (441 ) de communication de manière à transmettre au moins une donnée correspondant à l’état assimilé à l’état à vide de ladite palette (1). - a step of controlling the communication device (441) so as to transmit at least one piece of data corresponding to the state assimilated to the empty state of said pallet (1).
PCT/FR2021/050003 2020-01-08 2021-01-04 Pallet comprising a tracking device, assembly of at least two pallets and pallet-tracking method WO2021140291A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FRFR2000118 2020-01-08
FR2000109A FR3105970A1 (en) 2020-01-08 2020-01-08 So-called connected pallet
FRFR2000109 2020-01-08
FR2000118A FR3105969A1 (en) 2020-01-08 2020-01-08 So-called connected pallet

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100147198A1 (en) 2008-12-11 2010-06-17 Todd Palmer Pallet
US20150298854A1 (en) 2014-04-21 2015-10-22 Oria Collapsibles, Llc Multi-functional pallet with locating support structure and buoyancy characteristics and including rfid-gps tracking and light (sound) locating features in combination with magnetic stackability during non-use
WO2017179985A1 (en) 2016-04-14 2017-10-19 Ahrma Holding B.V. Pallet
WO2019018714A1 (en) 2017-07-21 2019-01-24 Walmart Apollo, Llc Improvements in shipping accuracy

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100147198A1 (en) 2008-12-11 2010-06-17 Todd Palmer Pallet
US20150298854A1 (en) 2014-04-21 2015-10-22 Oria Collapsibles, Llc Multi-functional pallet with locating support structure and buoyancy characteristics and including rfid-gps tracking and light (sound) locating features in combination with magnetic stackability during non-use
WO2017179985A1 (en) 2016-04-14 2017-10-19 Ahrma Holding B.V. Pallet
WO2019018714A1 (en) 2017-07-21 2019-01-24 Walmart Apollo, Llc Improvements in shipping accuracy

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