WO2023052443A1

WO2023052443A1 - Logistics unit and method for providing goods

Info

Publication number: WO2023052443A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/077009
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andreas Franke; Hartmut Zadek
Original assignee: Otto-Von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg
Priority date: 2021-09-28
Filing date: 2022-09-28
Publication date: 2023-04-06
Also published as: DE102021125165A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a logistics unit for providing and/or distributing goods, wherein the logistics unit has a platform for receiving the goods and a roller arrangement with one or more rollers, wherein the logistics unit is designed to move on a base by means of the rollers in a manually actuated and/or self-propelled manner. The invention also relates to an associated method for providing goods by means of such a logistics unit.

Description

Logistics unit and method for providing goods

The invention relates to a logistics unit and a method for providing goods, which is carried out using such a logistics unit.

The logistics industry is currently confronted with the increasing importance of mail order, which is leading to a significantly higher volume of packages to be delivered to private households and companies. At the same time, however, it is less common than it used to be for at least one member of the household to be at home during the day, which makes it much more difficult to deliver parcels to private households. Typically, undeliverable parcels are then handed over to a post office, where the recipient then has to pick up the shipment. This leads to additional traffic and personnel expenses in the respective branch. Internally, too, it is becoming increasingly important to provide goods such as materials that are to be used in production or as tools as efficiently as possible.

For the logistics sector, solutions have recently been established in which parcel boxes are set up at a few central locations, into which the shipments are sorted without a delivery attempt being made beforehand. In these cases, the recipient will be notified of the available shipment and can pick up the package at a suitable time. However, this is also associated with sometimes long journeys, which not only leads to additional traffic, but can also be difficult for older people or people with restricted mobility.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a logistics unit for providing and/or distributing goods, which is designed as an alternative or better than known designs. It is a further object of the invention to provide an associated method for providing goods. According to the invention, this is achieved by a logistics unit and a method according to the respective main claims. Advantageous configurations can be found, for example, in the respective dependent claims. The content of the claims is made part of the content of the description by express reference. The invention relates to a logistics unit for providing and/or distributing goods. The logistics unit has a platform for receiving the goods, and it preferably has a roller arrangement with one or more rollers. The logistics unit is preferably designed to be manually actuated by means of the rollers and/or to move on a subsurface in a self-propelled manner.

By means of such a logistics unit, it is possible in an advantageous manner to provide goods in a targeted manner at a specific location, with the logistics unit being able to be loaded at another location and then brought to the location of provision. For example, the logistics unit can be loaded with goods in a mail distribution center, can then be taken to a destination and set up there. For example, such a destination can be located in a larger residential complex, so that it is particularly easy to supply the residents there with goods. The logistics unit can also be used to provide goods within a company.

In particular, a frame can be referred to as a platform, on which either goods can be placed directly or on which an attachment or another element for holding the goods can be placed. The goods can thus be picked up either directly by the platform or it can be done indirectly via another element. In particular, the goods can be brought in and removed again in a simple manner. Access to the goods can in particular be controllable, so that a targeted delivery to authorized recipients is possible. In particular, the roller arrangement can have a plurality of rollers, so that stability of the logistic unit is achieved based solely on the rollers. In particular, three, four, five or more rollers can be used for this purpose. If fewer rollers are used, the logistics unit can be designed, for example, to be movable after tipping, after which only the rollers are still connected to the floor. This can be the case, for example, with an embodiment as a single-axle trailer.

Manual actuation means in particular that an operator moves the logistics unit on the ground using muscle power. This can for example supported, which is discussed in more detail below. A self-propelled design can in particular be understood to mean that the logistics unit is moved on the ground without human or animal muscle power and in particular with its own drive, for example an electric drive. Possible implementations will be described in more detail below.

In particular, it can be provided that the logistics unit has a number of compartments. Each compartment can be designed to hold at least one item. The logistics unit can advantageously have a central access control device on a first side, which in particular has an open state and a closed state. It is expediently provided that the central access control device releases a number of compartments, or all compartments, on the first side in the open state and closes them together on the first side in the closed state. Such an embodiment makes it possible, in particular, to control several compartments or all compartments together with regard to their access. This can be used in particular to release the compartments at a parcel distribution center or a similar facility in just one operation and then load them manually or automatically and/or remove the goods contained therein.

In particular, it can be provided that the logistics unit has a number of separate access control devices on a second side, which is opposite the first side. In particular, these each have an open state and a closed state. Each separate access control device is assigned to exactly one respective compartment or a subset of the compartments. A subset of subjects can be understood in particular as a group of subjects which includes at least two subjects, but not all subjects of the logistics unit. It is expediently provided that each separate access control device releases the respective assigned compartment or the respective assigned compartments on the second side in the open state and closes them on the second side in the closed state. As a result, separate access control to the compartments can be achieved, which is in particular more specific than the central access control device. The separate access control devices can be used in particular for a To control access by multiple users such as package collectors at a site, each package collector typically only gets access to one compartment. Nevertheless, the compartments can be made accessible together for loading by means of the central access control device on the other side.

A release is understood in particular to mean that access to a compartment is possible, so that goods can be placed in the compartment or removed from it.

In particular, provision can be made for the central access control device to lock several compartments, or at least 5 compartments, or at least 10 compartments, or a different number of two or more compartments together on the first side when closed, which on the second side are closed by a number of associated compartments separate access control devices can be released and locked separately and/or in subsets. The compartments locked by the central access control device in the closed state can thus be released separately or in partial quantities, so that package collectors, for example, can pick up their packages. The central access control device can in turn be opened for loading in a parcel center.

In particular, provision can be made for one, some or all of the separate access control devices to be in the form of pivoting doors, sliding doors, flaps or lockable drawers. This allows simple and easy-to-use designs that enable separate access control.

The central access control device and/or the separate access control devices can preferably be locked in their respective closed state, so that they can only be brought into the open state after the locking has been released. In other words, each access control device can have a locked state and a released state in the closed state, it being possible for switching to take place, for example, by means of a lock, an electromagnet, a bolt or other mechanisms. When locked, it is not possible to open the respective access control device. Only after solving that, for example can be done by entering a code or operating a lock using a key, opening is made possible.

The logistics unit can in particular have an electronic access control device, which is configured to selectively control and/or lock the separate access control devices depending on a user input, information received or a status and to release a lock. The electronic access control device can in particular have a control panel, control buttons or a radio communication interface. This allows users to authorize themselves, for example by entering a code or by establishing a connection to a mobile phone on which an application is running and/or specific data is stored. In particular, package collectors can authorize themselves in this way. In principle, the same functionality can also be implemented for the central access control device.

In particular, the central access control device can be designed as a central door or as a roller door. This allows easy operation and easy locking when closed. The actuation can be done manually or electrically, for example.

The explanations given in the previous paragraphs regarding access control for the subjects are to be understood in particular as supplementary and/or alternative formulations to the thematically similar explanations given below.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the logistics unit has an attachment in which one compartment or several compartments are formed, each compartment being designed to hold at least one item. By means of such an attachment, it is possible to provide the goods in one compartment each, so that a more targeted sorting and delivery are possible. In particular, the attachment can be designed or understood as a transport or loading aid. In particular, several compartments can be used, in which case the compartments can be designed in such a way that controlled access is possible. Possible implementations will be discussed in more detail below. In particular, several compartments with at least partially different sizes can be assembled in a modular manner so that they can be plugged together and/or removed from one another. In this way, the attachment can be adapted to the respective needs, for example it can be put together on a daily basis, depending on what type of goods are to be distributed and what size they are.

In particular, the compartments can therefore be present individually and each plugged together to form the attachment. The compartments can either all have different sizes or there can be several compartments, each of the same size, in order to be plugged together or, in the case of a finished attachment, plugged together. Accordingly, the compartments can also be removed from one another again. In principle, it is also possible to provide the modularity with compartments of the same size.

According to one embodiment, one, some or all of the compartments are designed as drawers. This allows the respective compartment to be pulled out easily so that goods can be inserted or removed from it. The drawer can then be pushed back in, so that overall space is saved. The drawers can be actuated manually and/or automatically, in particular electrically.

In particular, one, some or all of the compartments can be closed by means of a respective pivoting door. In particular, the pivoting door can be actuated manually and/or automatically, in particular electrically. This also allows controlled access to a respective compartment.

According to one embodiment, a compartment, some or all compartments can be closed as a shelf arrangement, in particular in a large container, by means of a central or roller door. Such a central or roller door can close one compartment, several or even all compartments at the same time. As a result, access to the compartments can be fundamentally prevented, at least from one side on which the roller door is arranged, for example while the logistics unit is moving or while it is standing still at a location where no goods are to be inserted or removed. According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a central or roller door. One, some or all of the compartments can be closed at least on one side by the central or roller door. In other words, these compartments are accessible when the central or roller door is open and are not accessible when it is closed, at least when viewed from a side where the roller door is located.

It can be provided that one, some or all compartments, which can be closed on one side by the central or roller door, can be closed on the opposite side by a respective pivoting door. This allows access to each of these compartments from both sides, with access being controlled on one side using the central or roller door and on the other side using the swing door. In particular, the central or roller door can be opened in order to load or unload several compartments, for example in a parcel center. The central or roller door can then be closed again. After the logistics unit has been brought to the place of installation, the compartments can be selectively accessed using the swing doors when the roller shutter is closed. A swinging door is typically assigned to only one compartment or at least not to all compartments, i.e. it typically gives access to one compartment or possibly to several compartments when open, and closes this compartment or these compartments when closed.

The central or roller door can be designed in particular to close a plurality of compartments on a respective first side, which can each be closed separately on a respective second side. As mentioned above, this can be done, for example, by means of pivoting doors. Such a compartment can be designed to be continuous, in particular between the two sides mentioned. As a result, for example, goods can be brought in from one side and removed from the other side.

The compartments, which can be closed on the respective first side by the central or roller door, can in particular be closed on the respective second side by a respective pivoting door. However, other doors or locking mechanisms are also possible.

According to one possible embodiment, it is provided that the logistics unit has another central or roller door, with one, some or all subjects on one respective first side can be closed by the central door or roller door and can be closed on a respective second side by the further central door or roller door. This enables joint opening and closing on both sides using a respective central or roller door. In particular, the central or roller doors can be arranged on opposite sides of the logistics unit.

In particular, a roll-up door is a door typically formed from a plurality of slats or other elements which can be slid together along second opposed rails or similar guide mechanisms. A central gate can be understood as a generalization of this. The concept of a central gate designates in particular a gate or another access prevention unit for enabling and blocking access to all or at least several compartments. In particular, a central door can be designed as a roller door. In particular, it can block or release more compartments at the same time than pivoting doors arranged opposite thereto, which typically block or release only one compartment.

In particular, the compartments, for example one compartment, some compartments or all compartments, can each be locked and unlocked separately. This can be done, for example, by suitable locking mechanisms such as locks, magnets, hooks or other designs. In particular, it can be determined for each individual compartment whether and when it may be opened, so that only persons authorized to insert goods or to remove goods have access to the respective compartment.

In particular, the logistic unit can have a tilt detector, which is configured to detect tilting of the logistic unit from an erected state. The tilt detection can have a tilt sensor, for example. A set-up condition is typically a normal street situation or a situation on a parking place.

For example, the tilt detection can be configured to issue an alarm in response to a detected tilt. This alarm can be acoustic and/or visual, for example. This allows those in the immediate vicinity People are warned if the logistics unit tips over, for example due to vandalism or a storm. The alarm can also be issued via a radio link, for example, in order to inform an operator of the logistics unit.

The tilting detection can be configured, for example, to move a component within the logistics unit in response to a detected tilting in order to counteract the tilting. For example, a high mass component like a battery can be moved. Rails and a drive mechanism can be provided for this purpose, for example.

In particular, the logistic unit can have an operating panel for controlling the logistic unit. This control panel can be designed, for example, as a touch-sensitive screen, as a screen with an associated keyboard, or as another unit for communication between man and machine. This allows the logistics unit to be controlled directly by an operator located there.

The logistics unit can in particular have a radio interface for controlling the logistics unit using an external device. This allows the logistic unit to be controlled remotely, in which case the logistic unit can, according to one embodiment, be completely remote-controlled or can also be controlled in combination via an operating panel attached thereto and via the radio interface. In particular, the control can be done using a mobile phone. This can in particular be coupled to the radio interface. This can be done, for example, via a short-range connection such as WLAN or Bluetooth, or via a cellular network. In particular, bidirectional access can be provided, so that data can be exchanged in both directions. This allows, for example, confirmation of an action that has been carried out to the external device such as a cell phone. By using a radio interface, increased security against vandalism can be achieved, for example, since a control panel attached to the logistics unit can no longer be smeared if such a panel can advantageously be dispensed with due to the radio interface. However, it is also possible to use both a radio interface and a control panel. The compartments can be released in particular by means of the control panel and/or by means of an external device. This allows easy operation, particularly at a location where the logistic unit is to be loaded or at a location where the goods are to be made available. For example, a recipient of a package can go to the logistics unit with his mobile phone, enter a predetermined code into a suitable application and thereby open a compartment of the logistics unit in which his shipment is located.

In particular, the roller arrangement can be adjustable in height relative to the platform, in particular manually, electrically or electromechanically. In a down state, the rollers can protrude downwards to be slidable on a floor. In an upper state, the rollers can be retracted, so that the platform rests on the ground without the rollers. This allows the logistic unit to be secured simply by pulling up the rollers. If the rollers protrude downwards, they can in particular lie on the ground in such a way that the logistic unit rests on the ground exclusively via the rollers. This allows a process according to the mobility of the rollers. However, if the rollers are retracted, this mobility is no longer available. Fixing the location is easily achieved in this way, since it is typically no longer possible to move the logistics unit, particularly if the weight is sufficiently high, without the rollers. This also enables the logistics unit to be protected against theft in a simple manner. For example, an electric drive or a hydraulic cylinder can be provided for raising and lowering. The electric drive can be implemented, for example, by means of an electric motor and/or a threaded stand.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit can have a drive unit for driving one, some or all rollers. As a result, the logistics unit can be fully or partially self-propelled. In particular, the drive unit can be designed electrically, ie it can in particular have one or more electric motors, by means of which the logistics unit can be moved. In particular, the drive unit can be designed for a maximum speed of 6 km/h. As a result, the logistics unit can move independently on sidewalks, in traffic areas of residential complexes and similar areas. Safety can also be increased as a result, since immediate braking is possible, for example, in the event of detected obstacles or potential collisions with people or objects.

In particular, the drive unit can be designed to drive the logistics unit autonomously, along a predefinable path and/or to a predefinable destination. Autonomous driving can be understood in particular as meaning that the logistics unit itself, with a very high level of integration, determines how and/or where to drive, so that, for example, only one destination or one task, such as supplying a block of flats, is specified and the logistics unit then independently calculates how to achieve this goal. The specification of a route can be understood in particular to mean that the route is specified on an electronic map or in some other way and the logistics unit follows this route, in particular as long as it does not detect any obstacles along this route. Specifying a destination can be understood in particular as meaning that a specific location is specified, for example on an electronic map, and the logistics unit drives to this destination automatically. This can be used in particular to position the logistics unit in a manageable area such as a residential complex or a factory site and to use it sensibly. In particular, a manual control and/or check can be dispensed with in whole or in part, which saves effort.

The route and/or the destination can be specified in particular by an input on a control panel of the logistics unit, by an external device or by an external infrastructure. Reference is made to the statements already made in this regard. An external infrastructure can, for example, have external intelligence and/or sensors as well as means of communication in order to remotely control the logistics unit. The logistics unit can also be generally remote-controlled, for example by means of teleoperating. This allows driving parameters, destination, speed, course or other values to be specified by an external unit. In particular, the drive unit can be designed to drive one, some or all rollers to support a manually initiated movement. As a result, the logistics unit can basically be moved manually, with a certain amount of muscle power being applied, but the movement being supported by the drive unit. Thus, an operator does not have to move the logistics unit with muscle power alone, but only apply part of the force required for this, with the remaining force being applied by the drive unit. This enables easier operation.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a store for electrical energy. This can be an electric battery or an accumulator, for example. This allows an autonomous energy supply. According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a generating device for electrical energy. This can be, for example, a solar cell, a fuel cell or another device. As a result, the logistics unit can supply itself with electrical energy.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has an energy distribution unit, wherein the energy distribution unit can be designed in particular to transmit electrical energy to compartments or other components of the logistics unit via cable, cable harness, plug connection, pluggable lines, induction or another energy transmission technology. This allows compartments or other components to be supplied directly, so that compartments, for example, can perform the functionality of selective release already described.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has an internal communication unit, wherein the internal communication unit can be designed in particular to communicate with compartments or other components of the logistics unit via wired and/or wireless data communication. This allows data to be passed on internally, for example instructions for opening or closing or for releasing or not releasing compartments. For this purpose, the compartments can in particular have their own logic units, which, for example, send signals from the Can receive internal communication unit to release. The logic unit can then ensure, for example, that the respective compartment is released.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a position determination unit. This enables the automatic determination of a location at which the logistics unit is currently located.

In particular, the position determination unit can use one or more of the following types of position determination:

satellite navigation,

Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN),

Narrow Band loT (Internet of Things),

cellular network,

G5 WiFi or higher.

Such types of position determination have proven themselves for the purpose of the logistics unit. In particular, two or more than two such

Position determination types are combined in order to obtain an even better and, in particular, sufficient accuracy of the position determination for the logistics unit. Such accuracy can, for example, enable automatic movement on areas such as the entrance to a residential complex, which would not be possible if only one type of position determination were used.

In particular, the position determination unit can be configured to combine at least two types of position determination. As already mentioned, a higher and, in particular, sufficient accuracy can be achieved as a result.

In particular, the position determination unit can be configured to achieve a spatial resolution of at least 10 cm. This means that the place where the logistic unit is located can be determined with an uncertainty of at most 10 cm. This has proven to be particularly advantageous for typical purposes, in particular a method in the vicinity of a residential complex or within a company, but also sufficient for typical purposes. Alternatively can For example, a spatial resolution of at least 1 cm, at least 2 cm or at least 5 cm can also be provided.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a vibration detection unit, a movement detection unit, a temperature detection unit for one, some or all compartments and/or the environment and/or an environment observation unit. In particular, a vibration detection unit can determine when the logistics unit is being vibrated, for example in order to recognize when it is being moved without authorization. A movement detection unit can detect when the logistics unit is being moved, for example by detecting when the rollers are moving or when there is a change of location. A temperature detection unit can, in particular, record the temperature in compartments and/or in the environment in order to enable the logistics unit to be monitored and, for example, to point out possible dangerous situations or to eliminate them. For example, the temperature of a particular compartment can be monitored in order to prevent the goods stored in it from igniting. An environment observation unit can, for example, take photos and/or videos of the environment and thereby enable, for example, remote control of the logistics unit by transmission of the photos and/or videos taken to an external device, or automatic control based on an analysis of the photos and/or videos taken make possible. In addition, an anti-theft function can also be implemented in this way. The units mentioned can be combined with one another in any combination and sub-combination.

In particular, one, some or all of the rollers can be designed as fixed rollers. Such fixed rollers are typically not steerable and in particular ensure increased stability when driving. According to one embodiment, one, some or all of the rollers can be designed as swivel rollers. These can typically be rotated so that the logistics unit can be steered. In this case, castors can be designed in such a way that they are freely rotatable and thus adapt to a predetermined route, or they can also be actively steered, for example to specify a direction of travel for the logistics unit. According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a dead man's brake, which releases the rollers for manual movement depending on a detected contact with an operator. As a result, safety can be increased during the manual process. For example, an operator can press a button or push or pull a lever during the process so that the logistic unit is informed that the operator is at the logistic unit and can control it. As long as this is the case, the roles are released. If contact with the logistics unit is lost, for example because the button is no longer pressed or the lever is no longer actuated, the rollers can be automatically blocked in order to prevent the logistics unit from moving further and, in particular, to prevent uncontrolled movement. It is also possible to detect the presence of an operator, for example via a sensor button, a camera or in some other way.

According to one embodiment, the logistics unit has a freely programmable controller. This can be implemented, for example, as a microcontroller, microprocessor, programmable logic controller (SPSS), application-specific integrated circuit (AS IC=Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or as another programmable electronic unit. This allows free programming, for example by a user such as a property manager of a residential complex, which can in this way simply and flexibly specify how the logistics unit should behave within the residential complex.

In particular, the logistics unit can have one or more sensors which can be read out by a freely programmable controller. The sensors can be, for example, the units already mentioned above or also other sensors for detecting various values on or in the vicinity of the logistics unit. As a result, it is advantageously possible to react automatically to environmental influences or to obstacles or other external objects or events.

In particular, the logistics unit can have a communication interface that is configured to communicate with one or more of the following units: carrier vehicle,

Structure, control system, infrastructure, teleoperator.

The communication interface can also be designed for communication with other units. The communication interface can, for example, be configured to communicate only internally, only externally, or both externally and internally.

According to an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the logistics unit has at least one wall and/or at least one swinging door and/or at least one side wall and/or at least one delimitation of a compartment and/or at least one inner floor which is a combination of a flat element with a trapezoidal sheet immediately adjacent to it. This has proven to be particularly weight-efficient and stable at the same time. Several or all of the walls, pivoting doors, side walls, boundaries and/or inner floors can also be designed accordingly. A trapezoidal sheet can in particular have a plurality of beads which can be at a greater distance from the flat element than the rest of the trapezoidal sheet.

In particular, the trapezoidal sheet metal can be perforated between formed beads. This allows for significant weight savings without any noticeable impact on stability.

In particular, one, some or all of the inner bases can be at least partially perforated. This saves weight. In particular, the inner bases can delimit compartments vertically from one another.

In particular, a respective central section which is not perforated can be formed in one, some or all of the inner bases that are perforated. This increases stability. In this way, forces can be better directed outwards. The central section can in particular be cruciform or star-shaped. As a result, the central section can be used in a particularly advantageous manner to introduce the weight of goods lying thereon into a surrounding structure.

In particular, the inner floor surrounding the central area can be largely, predominantly or completely perforated. For example, at least 90% of the area of the inner floor outside the central area can be perforated. This can in particular be understood to mean that there are regular or irregular holes in the perforated area.

The invention also relates to a method for providing goods, the method having the following steps:

Loading the goods into a logistics unit, particularly as described herein, then

Bringing the logistic unit to a target area by means of a transport vehicle, then

Removing the logistic unit from the transport vehicle, and then driving the logistic unit to an installation site.

This allows goods to be provided in a particularly advantageous manner, with the goods being able to be loaded in a logistics unit and then made available in a respective destination area. The goods can be loaded into the logistics unit in particular in a postal distribution center, a parcel center or a similar facility. In such a facility, numerous packages typically arrive daily, which are to be sent to many different recipients. Goods for a specific destination can be combined and loaded into the logistics unit. The logistics unit can then already be brought to the destination area already loaded, for which purpose a transport vehicle can be used. This eliminates the need to run the logistics unit in such a way that it can drive autonomously, for example autonomously participate in road traffic. This significantly reduces the effort involved in manufacturing and maintaining the logistic unit. If the logistics unit is removed from the transport vehicle, which typically occurs after the transport vehicle has reached the destination area, it can be moved to the final installation site become. This can be done manually and/or automatically or autonomously, for example as already described above. In particular, the installation site can be located in the target area. The target area can be a geographically defined area, for example.

In particular, the transport vehicle can have a loading area on which one or more logistics units are loaded. This allows easy loading. According to one embodiment, the transport vehicle is a cargo bike. In particular, the logistics unit can be designed as a trailer for the cargo bike. This permits an at least partially manual process, in which case complex transport vehicles such as trucks can be dispensed with. The cargo bike can, for example, be designed as an e-bike, i.e. with an electric support for a driver. The transport vehicle can also be designed to tow a trailer or one or more trailers coupled to one another to accommodate one or more logistics units. One or more logistics units can be loaded onto each of these trailers in order to take them to the destination area.

The transport vehicle can be controlled manually, for example, so that it can participate in road traffic. It can also be designed for autonomous or semi-autonomous driving. This also allows participation in road traffic.

In particular, the transport vehicle and/or the trailer or trailers can be coupled manually, electrically, electromechanically, magnetically and/or electromagnetically. This allows easy coupling and decoupling of trailer and transport vehicle.

In particular, after being removed from the transport vehicle, the logistics unit can drive autonomously and/or automatically to the installation site. This allows particularly simple logistics in that the logistics unit is loaded at a central facility such as a parcel center, is then brought to the destination area by means of a transport vehicle and automatically reaches its final installation site. The transport vehicle can then continue immediately and, for example, unload more logistics units at other locations while the Logistic unit automatically covers a mostly short distance. This can be done, for example, at the top speed of 6 km/h already mentioned above.

Alternatively, the logistics unit can be brought to the installation site manually after being removed from the transport vehicle. As a result, the provision of a functionality for autonomous driving can be dispensed with. In particular, manual handling, which can be initiated by muscle power, can be supported, as has already been described above. However, manual movement can also mean remote control of the logistics unit, which is moved by means of its drive unit.

In principle, the method described here can also be used to collect goods. A recipient who can pick up a shipment can also be a sender who deposits a shipment. For example, a shipment can be taken out of a compartment and another shipment can be placed in the compartment. The method can thus also be a method for picking up or a method for providing and picking up. The statements made apply accordingly. Picked-up shipments can, for example, be removed from the logistics unit after the logistics unit has been picked up by a transport vehicle. They can then, for example, be further processed, for example taken to the respective destinations. This can be done, for example, in the same facility in which the logistics unit is loaded.

It should be pointed out that in the method described here, all of the versions and variants of a logistics unit described here can be used. Likewise, the method aspects described herein can be applied accordingly for the logistics unit described herein.

In other words, the distribution or delivery or collection of goods, especially on the "last mile", is becoming increasingly important. Increasing consumption and practiced online trading are leading to strong growth in the delivery service market, especially in the area of parcel delivery, but also in other delivery services such as food or laundry. This affects not only the municipal area in towns or villages, but also industrial park surroundings or large depots with several companies or at least buildings as reception or transmission locations. In the following, the parcel delivery/pick-up service will be considered further as representative of all delivery/pick-up services, since the most diverse developments relating to delivery/pick-up can be observed here.

The basic problem is finding the recipient/sender upon delivery/collection. In more than 10% of cases, the first delivery fails. In another 20% of the cases, the deliveries are handed over to the neighbors as requested or left in more or less secure locations. This is not a satisfactory situation for the recipient. Deliveries that are undelivered are typically either redelivered or have to be picked up by the recipients from the branches/shops themselves, which leads to higher costs and loss of time. Otherwise, there is a growing trend towards delivery to stationary parcel stations, which also enable contactless handover. However, a recipient has to move to the stationary parcel stations, which is not always part of the daily route and is often done in their own car. A parcel station within walking distance of the apartment would be ideal, which corresponds to a distance of up to 500 m based on local public transport. However, it is unrealistic for a stationary parcel station and possibly even several parcel stations to be set up every 500 m by different operators.

The logistics unit described here can represent a solution, which can be a mobile, small and modularly scalable platform for the distribution/delivery or also for the collection of goods, which can be set up in quarters as required and can be equipped with additional technical functionalities.

The logistics unit can be equipped with an electrically driven roller support that enables precise positioning. In addition, the platform can automatically move at low speeds (e.g. up to 6 km/h) in order to commute between the locations of the carrier vehicle and the parking position. Otherwise, the platform can be transported, for example, for longer distances and higher speeds on a cargo bike as well as in vans or trucks. These do not have to be self-propelled, they can also be moved manually or remotely controlled via teleoperating. Other possible characteristics are:

The individual compartments of the mobile platform can be equipped with a central or decentralized access method to the compartments.

A flexible design of the compartment size based on a pluggable modular system is possible. This can be reconfigured once or later by the operator.

Mobile bidirectional data access can be provided.

A self-sufficient energy supply, for example based on battery systems and/or solar, can be provided.

Vandalism protection can be provided by GPS/motion/vibration and/or video systems.

A location can be determined, for example, via LoRaWAN, Narrow Band loT and/or GPS.

An open interface concept can be implemented to provide status and event information.

A lifting and lowering mechanism for location fixation, anti-theft protection and transport security (electro-mechanical) can be implemented.

A panel can be provided for operation and/or for displaying information.

Electrically driven fixed castors can be provided to support the deliverer when moving the box.

Autonomous movement and/or navigation over short distances for placement, for example in a neighborhood, can be provided.

Status information provided can be, for example: compartment open/closed, charge status of a battery, compartment use, etc.

Status information provided can be, for example: change of location, vibrations, movement, climate and environmental data. An intelligent, collaborative parcel compartment can be provided.

A single compartment lock for loading and unloading and optionally other technologies for automated loading, such as a roller shutter or central door, can be provided. In particular, the features described below have proven to be particularly advantageous, especially when they are used in combination:

Lifting and lowering mechanism (in particular to fix the location and/or to protect against theft), self-sufficient energy supply, in particular including the supply of possible superstructures, integrated freely programmable control (in particular evaluation of various sensors, control of the actuators, communication with other partners), movement and/or vibration sensors (particularly for protection against vandalism and theft), powered rollers to assist in reaching the parking position.

The following features are also advantageous:

Location determination/position determination (via radio, for example, using GPS/Galileo, LTE/5G, LoRaWAN, NB-loT, G5-WLAN or combinations), control panel,

communication/control with a carrier vehicle,

communication/control with a structure,

Communication/control with a control system, communication/control with an infrastructure, autonomous movement/navigation over short distances for placement automated or via teleoperation (e.g. in the neighborhood), various variants for superstructures, can be combined in a modular way, including energy supply: for example the mobile parcel station variant: modular combinable parcel compartments of different sizes (pluggable modular system) including distribution of energy and communication.

The features mentioned can be used individually or in any combination or all at the same time.

In particular, the logistics unit described herein closes a gap between fixed parcel stations and parcel containers on the one hand and delivery robots on the other. It can also be considered a middle ground between a pure follower and a full one autonomous delivery solution. This can be particularly cost effective for many uses.

In principle, however, other material than postal items, for example pallets for storing goods used in an industrial company, can also be transported and made available on the logistics unit described here.

The person skilled in the art will find further features and advantages in the exemplary embodiments described below with reference to the attached drawing.

show:

Fig. 1: a logistic unit,

Fig. 2: the logistics unit in a different view,

Fig. 3: a logistics unit in a different design,

Fig. 4: a schematic embodiment of the access to compartments,

Fig. 5: a cross section through a wall,

Fig. 6: a trapezoidal sheet,

Fig. 7: a floor panel,

8: a roller arrangement,

Fig. 9: the roller arrangement in a first state, and

10: the roller arrangement in a second state.

1 shows a logistics unit 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

The logistics unit 10 has a platform 20 which is formed in the logistics unit 10 on the underside. The logistics unit 10 also has a roller arrangement 30 , a first roller 31 , a second roller 32 and a third roller 33 of a total of four rollers present being visible in the view in FIG. 1 . A fourth roller 34 can be seen in FIG. The logistics unit 10 can be moved on a substrate by means of the roller arrangement 30 .

Above the platform 20 there is an attachment 40 in which a plurality of compartments 50 are formed. One of the multiple compartments 50 can be seen here because it is open. The compartments 50 are closed or can be locked by respective pivoting doors 60, with one of the pivoting doors 60 being open in the present case, so that the Compartment 50 located behind it can be seen. In this compartment 50 there is a product 15 in the form of a package which is to be delivered to a recipient. The other compartments 50 cannot be seen since they are closed by the respective pivoting doors 60. In principle, there is a compartment 50 behind each pivoting door 60 which can be selectively closed by the respective pivoting door 60 . Each pivoting door 60 represents a separate access control device.

A control panel 70 is arranged on the side of the logistics unit 10 . In the present case, this is designed as a touch-sensitive screen and is used to operate the logistics unit 10.

The logistics unit 10 also has a drive unit 80 which, in a manner not shown in detail, is designed to drive the rollers 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 of the roller arrangement 30 electrically. As a result, the logistics unit 10 can drive autonomously or by remote control and can also support a manual force that is exerted on it.

Furthermore, the logistics unit 10 has a freely programmable controller 90 . This controls the other electrical components and can ensure, in particular based on corresponding specifications, that a specified position is approached by means of the roller arrangement 30 and the drive unit 80 . Furthermore, it can use environment sensors (not shown) and other sensors to monitor the logistics unit 10 and increase security, for example to prevent a collision with objects or people. In particular, an inclination sensor (not shown) is present, which the controller 90 reads out. In the event of a detected tipping out of an installation position, a visual and/or acoustic warning is issued to warn bystanders.

In the present case, the roller arrangement 30 is designed in such a way that the rollers 31, 32, 33, 34 protrude downwards beyond the platform 20 in the state shown. This allows the logistic unit 10 to move. However, it is also possible to retract the roller arrangement 30 upwards, so that the logistic unit 10 rests with the platform 20 on the ground. The logistics unit 10 can then no longer by means of Roller assembly 30 are moved so that they can be fixed at a specific location. At the same time, this allows effective protection against theft, since a simple procedure is no longer possible.

2 shows the logistics unit 10 from a rear side. The fourth roller 34 of the roller arrangement 30 can also be seen here.

Separate compartments 50 are accessible from the rear, with a division taking place within the logistics unit 10 between the compartments accessible from the front and from the rear. The compartments 50 are also closed at the rear by respective pivoting doors 60, with a respective compartment 50 also being located behind each pivoting door 60, which compartment is selectively accessible via the respective pivoting door 60. However, the arrangement and division is different than on the front, thereby providing different compartment sizes.

3 shows the logistics unit 10 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention. A roll-up door 45 is provided on the attachment 40, with the roll-up door 45 serving to close all compartments which are located behind and therefore cannot be seen in FIG. This allows all compartments to be closed together and released accordingly using the roller shutter 45. The roller shutter 45 represents a central access control device.

In the present embodiment, compartments 50 are designed to be closable on a first side only by the roller door 45, all together, whereas they are closable on a respective second side by a respective pivoting door 60. This is shown purely schematically for two compartments 50 in FIG. The compartments 50 are continuous between the pages.

The logistics unit 10 can be loaded in particular in a central package distribution center or a similar facility, with packages for recipients in a specific destination area being loaded into individual compartments 50, for example. This can be done in particular by opening the roller door 45 and thereby gaining access to all compartments 50 at the same time. On a separate opening of the Pivoting doors 60 can be omitted, which saves considerable effort. Then the logistics unit 10 can be loaded onto a transport vehicle and taken to a destination area. In this case, the transport vehicle can participate in public road traffic in a known manner, so that the provision of self-propelled functionalities in the logistics unit 10 can be dispensed with. Once the transport vehicle has reached the destination area, the logistics unit 10 can be unloaded or uncoupled there and can either be moved manually to a set-up location, can be moved to a set-up location by remote control or can be moved to the set-up location autonomously. If an autonomous functionality can be used here, it is typically implemented in such a way that a maximum speed of 6 km/h is provided. As a result, the functionality for autonomous participation in road traffic can be dispensed with in the logistics unit. The logistics unit 10 thus reaches its place of installation automatically or also manually and can remain there for a certain period of time, so that recipients can remove their respective shipments or also insert outgoing shipments. In particular, the pivoting doors 60 can be used for the separate accessibility of the compartments 50, whereas the roller door 45 remains closed. Then the logistics unit 10 of a

Transport vehicle can be picked up again and the process already described can begin again. This allows short idle times for the transport vehicle, which can typically continue driving in the destination area immediately after the logistics unit 10 has been unloaded.

Alternatively, for example, a logistics unit 10 could also be designed with a respective roller door 45 on both sides.

FIG. 5 shows, purely schematically, a detail of a wall 100 which can be used as a side wall or also in a pivoting door of the logistics unit 10 . This wall 100 has a flat element 110 on which a trapezoidal metal sheet 120 rests. Two beads 122 are formed in the trapezoidal sheet metal 120 . It has been shown that by combining the flat element 110 with the trapezoidal sheet metal 120 with one or more beads, a particularly high level of stability can be achieved with the lowest possible weight, in particular compared to achieving the same stability by using thicker materials. 6 shows the trapezoidal sheet metal 120 in a plan view. It can be seen that there are perforated areas 124 between the beads 122 and also to the side of them. In the present case, offset rows of elongated holes are formed in these. It has been shown that the weight can be significantly reduced in this way without impairing stability.

7 shows an inner floor 130 in a plan view. This can be used, for example, for the vertical demarcation between two compartments 50 . As shown, the inner floor is partially perforated, in this case with round holes. This saves weight.

However, a central section 135 which is not perforated is formed in the center of the inner floor 130 . This is cross-shaped, with respective legs of the central section pointing at least approximately to respective corners. The four legs are perpendicular to each other as shown. The provision of the central section 135 significantly increases stability compared to a fully perforated design, since the weight of goods lying on the inner floor 130 is introduced into the surrounding structure.

8 shows the roller assembly 30 in a view from below. It can be seen that the two rollers 31, 34 are designed as non-steered fixed rollers and the two rollers 32, 33 are designed as steering rollers. This allows a good combination of directional stability and steerability.

The roller arrangement 30 is also assigned an electric drive 35 . This is designed to raise and lower the rollers 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 .

9 shows a lowered state. The rollers 31, 32, 33, 34 can rest on the floor so that the logistics unit 10 can be moved. figure

10 shows a raised state. In this, the rollers 31, 32, 33, 34 are not on the ground, but are retracted. Consequently, the platform 20 rests on the ground and the logistic unit can no longer be moved. Mentioned steps of the method according to the invention can be carried out in the order given. However, they can also be executed in a different order, as far as this is technically reasonable. In one of its implementations, for example with a specific combination of steps, the method according to the invention can be carried out in such a way that no further steps are carried out. In principle, however, further steps can also be carried out, including those which are not mentioned.

It should be noted that in the claims and in the description features can be described in combination, for example to facilitate understanding, although they can also be used separately. The person skilled in the art recognizes that such features can also be combined independently of one another with other features or combinations of features.

Back-references in dependent claims can identify preferred combinations of the respective features, but do not exclude other combinations of features.

Reference List

10 logistic unit

20 platform

30 roll arrangement

31, 31, 33, 34 rolls

35 electric drive

40 essay

45 roller door

50 compartments

60 swing doors

70 control panel

80 drive unit

90 control

100 wall

110 flat element

120 trapezoidal sheet

122 surrounds

124 perforated areas

130 interior floor

135 central section

Claims

Claims Logistics unit (10) for providing and/or distributing goods (15), the logistics unit (10) having the following: a platform (20) for receiving the goods (15), and a roller arrangement (30) with one or more rollers (31, 32, 33, 34), wherein the logistics unit (10) is designed to be manually actuated by means of the rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) and/or to move self-propelled on a substrate. Logistic unit (10) according to Claim 1, wherein the logistic unit (10) has a plurality of compartments (50), each compartment (50) being designed to hold at least one product (15), the logistic unit (10) having a central one on a first side Access control device which has an open state and a closed state, the central access control device releasing several compartments (50) or all compartments (50) on the first side in the open state and closing them together on the first side in the closed state. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 2, wherein the logistics unit (10) on a second side, which is opposite the first side, has a plurality of separate access control devices, which each have an open state and a closed state, each separate access control device having exactly one respective compartment (50), or a subset of the compartments (50), with each separate access control device releasing the respectively assigned compartment (50) or the respective assigned compartments (50) on the second side when open and, when closed, on the second side sealed. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 3, wherein the central access control device in the closed state has a plurality of subjects, or at least 5 subjects, or at least 10 subjects, on the first side closes together, which can be released and closed separately and/or in subsets on the second side by a plurality of associated separate access control devices. Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein one, some or all separate access control devices are designed as swing doors, sliding doors, flaps or as lockable drawers. Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the central access control device and the separate access control devices can be locked in their respective closed state, so that they can only be brought into the open state after the locking has been released. Logistics unit (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, which has an electronic access control device which is configured to selectively control and/or lock the separate access control devices depending on a user input, information received or a status and to lock it solve. Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the central access control device is designed as a central gate or as a roller shutter. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the logistics unit (10) has an attachment (40) in which a compartment (50) or several compartments (50) are formed, each compartment (50) for receiving at least one item (15) is formed. Logistics unit (10) according to Claim 9, in which a plurality of compartments (50) with at least partially different sizes can be plugged together in a modular manner and/or are assembled so that they can be removed from one another. Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 9 or 10, wherein one, some or all compartments (50) are designed as drawers, and/or wherein one, some or all compartments (50) can be closed by means of a respective pivoting door (60), and/or wherein some or all compartments (50) can be closed as a shelf arrangement in a large container by means of a central or roller door (45). Logistics unit (10) according to one of Claims 9 to 11, which has a central or roller door (45), and wherein one, some or all compartments (50) can be closed at least on one side by the central or roller door (45). Logistics unit (10) according to Claim 12, wherein one, some or all compartments (50) which can be closed on one side by the central or roller door (45) can be closed on the opposite side by a respective pivoting door (60). Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the central or roller door (45) is designed to close a plurality of compartments (50) on a respective first side, which can each be closed separately on a respective second side. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 14, wherein the compartments (50), which can be closed on the respective first side by the central or roller door (45), can be closed on the respective second side by a respective pivoting door (60). Logistics unit (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, which has a further central or roller door, and one, some or all of the compartments (50) being closable on a respective first side of the central or roller door (45) and being closable on a respective second side of the further central or roller door. Logistics unit (10) according to one of claims 9 to 16, wherein one, some or all compartments (50) can each be locked and released separately. Logistic unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a tilting detection which is configured to detect tilting of the logistic unit from an erected state. Logistic unit (10) according to claim 18, wherein the tilt detector is configured to issue an alarm in response to a detected tilt. Logistic unit (10) according to one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the tilting detector is configured to move a component within the logistic unit in response to a detected tilting in order to counteract the tilting. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has an operating panel (70) for controlling the logistics unit (10). Logistic unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a radio interface for controlling the logistic unit (10) by means of an external device. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 12 and according to one of claims 21 or 22, wherein the compartments (50) can be released by means of the control panel (70) and/or by means of an external device. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the roller arrangement (30) relative to the platform (20) is manually, electrically or electromechanically adjustable in height, the rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) protruding downwards in a lower state, to be slidable on a ground, and wherein in an upper state the rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) are retracted, so that the platform (20) without the rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) on the ground rests. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a drive unit (80) for driving one, some or all rollers (31, 32, 33, 34). Logistics unit (10) according to claim 25, wherein the drive unit (80) is designed for a maximum speed of at most 6 km/h. Logistic unit (10) according to one of Claims 25 or 26, the drive unit (80) being designed to drive the logistic unit (10) autonomously along a predeterminable route and/or to a predeterminable destination. Logistic unit (10) according to claim 27, wherein the route and/or the destination can be specified by an input on an operating panel (70) of the logistic unit (10), by an external device or by an external infrastructure and/or wherein the logistic unit (10 ) can be controlled remotely. Logistics unit (10) according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the drive unit (80) is designed to drive one, some or all rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) to support a manually initiated movement. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a store for electrical energy and/or which has a generating device for electrical energy. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has an energy distribution unit, wherein the energy distribution unit is designed to supply electrical energy to compartments (50) or other components of the logistics unit (10) via cable, cable harness, plug connection, pluggable line contacts, induction or a to transmit other energy transmission technology. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has an internal communication unit, the internal communication unit being designed to communicate with compartments (50) or other components of the logistics unit (10) via wired and/or wireless data transmission. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a position determination unit. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 33, wherein the position determination unit uses one or more of the following types of position determination:

satellite navigation,

LoRaWAN, narrowband loT,

cellular network,

G5 WiFi or higher; and/or wherein the position determination unit is configured to combine at least two types of position determination; and or wherein the position determination unit is configured to achieve a spatial resolution of at least 10 cm. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a vibration detection unit, a movement detection unit, a temperature detection unit for one, some or all compartments (50) and/or the environment and/or an environment observation unit. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one, some or all rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) are designed as fixed rollers, and / or wherein one, some or all rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) are designed as castors. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a dead man's brake which releases the rollers (31, 32, 33, 34) depending on a detected contact with an operator for manual movement. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has a freely programmable controller (90) and/or which has one or more sensors which can be read out by a freely programmable controller (90). Logistics unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, which has a communication interface which is configured to communicate with one or more of the following units:

carrier vehicle, structure, control system, infrastructure, teleoperator. Logistics unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one wall (100) and/or at least one pivoting door (60) and/or at least one side wall and/or at least one delimitation of a compartment (50) and/or at least one inner floor , which or which is a combination of a flat element (110) with a trapezoidal sheet metal (120) immediately adjacent thereto. Logistics unit (10) according to claim 40, wherein the trapezoidal sheet metal (120) is perforated between formed beads (122). Logistic unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one, some or all inner floors (130) are at least partially perforated. Logistic unit (10) according to Claim 42, wherein a respective central section (135) which is not perforated is formed in one, some or all of the inner bases (130) which are perforated. Logistic unit (10) according to claim 43, wherein the central portion (135) is cruciform or star-shaped. Method for providing goods (15), the method having the following steps:

Loading the goods (15) into a logistics unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, then

Spend the logistics unit (10) in a target area by means of a transport vehicle, then

Removing the logistics unit (10) from the transport vehicle and driving the logistics unit (10) to an installation site. Method according to claim 45, wherein the transport vehicle has a loading area onto which one or more logistics units (10) are loaded, and/or wherein the transport vehicle is a cargo bike, and/or wherein the transport vehicle is used to tow a trailer or multiple trailers coupled to one another is designed to accommodate one or more logistic units (10). Method according to Claim 46, in which the transport vehicle and the trailer or trailers can be coupled manually, electrically, electromechanically, magnetically and/or electromagnetically. Method according to one of Claims 45 to 47, in which the logistics unit (10) drives autonomously and/or automatically to the installation site after it has been removed from the transport vehicle. Method according to one of Claims 45 to 48, in which the logistics unit (10) is brought manually to the installation site after it has been removed from the transport vehicle.