U.S. patent application number 12/518619 was filed with the patent office on 2010-01-28 for method and device for accepting postal items.
This patent application is currently assigned to Deutsche Post AG. Invention is credited to Robert Poggemann, Marcel Schirmer, Keith Ulrich, Stefan Wilms.
Application Number | 20100019024 12/518619 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39316322 |
Filed Date | 2010-01-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100019024 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wilms; Stefan ; et
al. |
January 28, 2010 |
METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ACCEPTING POSTAL ITEMS
Abstract
There is provided a method for receiving mailpieces in a
container. An exemplary method comprises receiving a mailpiece in
the container, storing the mailpiece in the container, and removing
the mailpiece from the container. The exemplary method also
comprises recording a removal procedure. The exemplary method
additionally comprises storing and/or transmitting removal data
about the removal procedure using an interaction device associated
with the container, the interaction device comprising a transponder
located in a Faraday cage.
Inventors: |
Wilms; Stefan; (Koln,
DE) ; Ulrich; Keith; (Bonn-Oberkassel, DE) ;
Poggemann; Robert; (Bonn, DE) ; Schirmer; Marcel;
(Bonn, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
International IP Law Group
P.O. BOX 691927
HOUSTON
TX
77269-1927
US
|
Assignee: |
Deutsche Post AG
Bonn
DE
|
Family ID: |
39316322 |
Appl. No.: |
12/518619 |
Filed: |
December 12, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
December 12, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2007/010867 |
371 Date: |
October 6, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
232/18 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 2029/143 20130101;
A47G 29/1207 20130101; A47G 2029/146 20130101; G07F 17/12
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
232/18 |
International
Class: |
A47G 29/122 20060101
A47G029/122; A47G 29/124 20060101 A47G029/124 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 15, 2006 |
DE |
10 2006 059 773.7 |
Claims
1.-33. (canceled)
34. A method for receiving mailpieces in a container, the method
comprising: receiving a mailpiece in the container; storing the
mailpiece in the container; removing the mailpiece from the
container; recording a removal procedure; and storing and/or
transmitting removal data about the removal procedure using an
interaction device associated with the container, the interaction
device comprising a transponder located in a Faraday cage.
35. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the mailpiece is
dropped off in a logistics system, the method comprising performing
at least one processing step in the logistics system as a function
of the removal data.
36. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the interaction device
comprises an information memory.
37. The method recited in claim 36, wherein the information memory
contains an identifier.
38. The method recited in claim 37, wherein the identifier
identifies the container.
39. The method recited in claim 37, wherein the identifier
identifies a stationary device for holding the container.
40. The method recited in claim 39, wherein the information memory
is permanently joined to the stationary device.
41. The method recited in claim 36, wherein the information memory
is permanently joined to the container.
42. The method recited in claim 34, confirming a removal procedure
for a particular container when the particular container is
opened.
43. The method recited in claim 34, comprising performing a removal
procedure for a particular container by opening a device containing
the particular container.
44. The method recited in claim 34, comprising recording
information that is associated with at least one mailpiece.
45. The method recited in claim 44, wherein the recorded
information comprises one or more codes that identify the at least
one mailpiece.
46. The method recited in claim 34, comprising ending the removal
procedure by selecting a corresponding function on an input
device.
47. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the input device is
located in an area of a stationary device for holding the
container.
48. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the input device is
located in an area of the container.
49. The method recited in claim 34, wherein, after the container
and/or a device provided for receiving the container has been
opened, the container and/or the device provided for receiving the
container is blocked in such a way that any further removal is
prevented.
50. The method recited in claim 34, comprising allowing the
container to be closed by a person picking up the mailpiece only if
information that is associated with the mailpiece has first been
recorded.
51. The method recited in claim 34, comprising allowing the
container to be closed by a person picking up the mailpiece only if
the removal data has been recorded.
52. The method recited in claim 34, comprising opening the
container automatically if no information that is associated with
the mailpiece is or has been recorded.
53. The method recited in claim 34, comprising opening the
container automatically if no removal data is or has been
recorded.
54. A device for receiving mailpieces, comprising: a detection
device; a container for receiving the mailpieces, the container
containing an interaction device that is configured to interact
with the detection device, the interaction device comprising a
transponder located in a Faraday cage; and a removal site for
removing the mailpieces.
55. The device recited in claim 54, wherein the transponder is
located inside the device.
56. The device recited in claim 54, wherein the Faraday cage is
formed, at least in sections, by containers contained in the device
for receiving mailpieces.
57. A container for receiving mailpieces, the container having an
opening through which mailpieces can be inserted, the container
comprising: a detection device; and a transponder located in a
Faraday cage, the transponder being adapted to interact with the
detection device.
58. A logistics system for receiving and transporting mailpieces,
the logistics system comprising: a plurality of devices for
receiving mailpieces, each of the plurality of devices for
receiving mailpieces comprising: a detection device; a container
for receiving the mailpieces, the container containing an
interaction device that is configured to interact with the
detection device, the interaction device comprising a transponder
located in a Faraday cage; and a removal site for removing the
mailpieces.
59. The logistics system recited in claim 58, wherein removal data
regarding at least one of the mailpieces influences at least one
processing procedure in the logistics system.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 371, this application is the
United States National Stage Application of International Patent
Application No. PCT/EP2007/010867, filed on Dec. 12, 2007, the
contents of which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in
their entirety herein, which claims priority to German (DE) Patent
Application No. 10 2006 059 773.7, filed Dec. 15, 2006, the
contents of which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in
their entirety herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] For the collection of mail items, it is a known procedure to
employ collecting containers that are designed so that, when mail
is dropped in, they allow the storage of the mailpieces and also
prevent access to mail already in the box. When it comes to
mailboxes, the insertion slot is normally configured to be so
narrow that it is not possible to access the mail that has already
been dropped in.
[0003] Also in the realm of the collection of larger mail items
such as packages and parcels, it is a known procedure to employ
containers to collect such items. For instance, German Preliminary
Published Application DE 103 51 475 A9 describes a mailbox for
collecting packages that has an insertion opening and a storage
space arranged below the insertion opening. There is a flap that
can be pivoted about an axis that runs horizontally and, in the
resting position, this flap closes the insertion opening. When a
user wants to drop in a package, pivots the flap forward toward
himself and inserts the package. Here, the flap is configured in
such a manner that, when it is open, it does not allow access to
the packages that have already been dropped into the storage space.
When the flap is closed, the entrance to the storage space is open
and the package falls into the container.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to
a method for receiving mailpieces. Exemplary embodiments of the
present invention may also relate to a device for carrying out said
method.
[0005] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to
a method for receiving mailpieces that allows the placement of the
mailpieces into a collecting device.
[0006] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention may also
relate to a device for carrying out said method.
[0007] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a
method for receiving mailpieces in a container.
[0008] This method may comprise the following steps: [0009]
receiving a mailpiece in the container, [0010] storing the
mailpiece in the container, [0011] removing the mailpiece from the
container, [0012] recording a removal procedure, [0013] storing
and/or transmitting removal data about the removal procedure.
[0014] The removal data includes especially information about one
or more of the following listed events: [0015] information
indicating that a removal has taken place; [0016] information about
the point in time of the removal; [0017] information about the
place of the removal; [0018] information about the volume of
removed mailpieces; [0019] information about the number of removed
mailpieces; [0020] information about the identification of at least
some individual items among the removed mailpieces; [0021]
identification information about the removal means that was
employed; [0022] identification information identifying the person
picking up the mailpieces.
[0023] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be
carried out with a plurality of devices and is thus not limited to
individual devices.
[0024] A device for receiving mailpieces, comprising a container
for receiving the mailpieces and a removal site for removing the
mailpieces according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention comprises an interaction device that is configured in
such a way that it can interact with a detection device.
[0025] A refinement of the method, of the device and of the
container according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provides that the mailpieces are dropped off in a
logistics system and that at least one processing step that takes
place in the logistics system is carried out as a function of the
removal data.
[0026] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a
logistics system that automates and considerably simplifies the
transportation of mailpieces to intended recipients.
[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a logistics system is provided that is characterized by
especially high security and reliability.
[0028] The term logistics system is to be understood in a broad
sense within the scope of the invention. In particular, it
encompasses systems that are adapted to carry out the
transportation of mailpieces from drop-off locations to delivery
locations on the transportation route, preferably within a postal
distribution network.
[0029] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the removal data is
stored and/or transmitted by an interaction device associated with
the container.
[0030] This makes it possible to ascertain an emptying procedure
and, if applicable, to transmit it--especially for tracing
purposes--or to store it--especially for tracking purposes, for
example, when the container is removed from a stationary device
provided for holding it.
[0031] Moreover, it is advantageous for the removal data to be
stored and/or transmitted by an interaction with a stationary
device for holding the container.
[0032] The storage and/or the transmission of the removal data is
especially advantageous in order to achieve one or more of the
following objectives: [0033] proof that the device was emptied;
[0034] transmission of the point in time when the mailpieces were
removed from the device (for tracking the mailpieces that were
dropped off in the device or container) and/or storage of the point
in time of the removal of the mailpieces from the device (for
tracing the dropped-off mailpieces).
[0035] Such information comprises especially preferred examples of
removal data according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0036] In addition to information indicating that a removal has
taken place, additional removal data can also be recorded and, if
applicable, transmitted and/or stored.
[0037] The removal data can also be, for example, information about
the filling level of the containers.
[0038] In particular, an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention entails the possibility of carrying out evaluations of
the filling level of devices for holding mailpieces and using this
information to select a location and/or to specify the frequency
with which removals have to be carried out.
[0039] The removal data can also include additional information,
for example, deficiency reports, for example, about damage or
dirt.
[0040] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the interaction device
comprises an information memory.
[0041] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the information
memory contains an identifier.
[0042] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the identifier identifies the
container.
[0043] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the information
memory is permanently joined to the container.
[0044] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the identifier identifies a
stationary device for holding the container.
[0045] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the information
memory is permanently joined to the stationary device.
[0046] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that opening the container is
considered to be a confirmation of a removal procedure of that
particular container.
[0047] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that opening the device
containing the container is considered to be a removal procedure
for the container.
[0048] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that information about at least one
mailpiece is recorded, said information being associated with a
mailpiece.
[0049] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the recorded
information is one or more codes that identify the mailpiece or
mailpieces.
[0050] This makes it possible to improve tracking and/or tracing of
the mailpieces in a simple and reliable manner.
[0051] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention improves
logistical functions. Moreover, in an especially simple and
practical manner, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
provides a logistics system that allows tracking and tracing for
many mailpieces.
[0052] The drop-off location is, for example, the described device
for receiving mailpieces. This device is part of the logistics
system for handling the object that is to be transported. The
delivery location is preferably selected by the party that
commissioned the transport. In the case of returns, this is, for
example, a warehouse of a retailer or manufacturer.
[0053] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that a person picking up the
mailpieces ends the removal procedure by selecting a corresponding
function on an input device.
[0054] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system is characterized in that the input
device is located in an area of the stationary device.
[0055] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the input device is located in
an area of the container.
[0056] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that, after the container
and/or the device provided for receiving the container has been
opened, the container and/or the device provided for receiving the
container is blocked in such a way that any further removal is
prevented.
[0057] Advantageously, any further removal is only possible after a
given event occurs--for example, the input of a code key--or else
after a predefinable time interval.
[0058] This has the advantage that the risk of fraudulent removal
of mailpieces from the device or container is diminished.
[0059] Blocking of a removal procedure can also be carried out as a
function of additional parameters.
[0060] For example, it is possible to specify periods of time for
the removal. It can also be specified that removals outside of the
removal periods of time are prevented by blocking the device and/or
the container.
[0061] As an alternative, removal procedures outside of the defined
removal times can be logged and stored and/or transmitted.
[0062] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the controller ensures that an
opened container can only be closed by the person picking up the
mailpieces if information that is associated with at least one
mailpiece has first been recorded.
[0063] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the controller
ensures that an opened device can only be closed by the person
picking up the mailpieces once removal data has been recorded.
[0064] In an especially simple and reliable manner, this ensures
that the removal data is recorded.
[0065] It is advantageous to use the removal data recorded
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in
order to control logistical procedures in the logistics system.
[0066] A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provides that at last one processing procedure in the
logistics system is carried out as a function of the removal
data.
[0067] Thus, for example, it is possible to regulate capacities in
processing centers for the mailpieces--especially in mail or parcel
centers--as a function of the removal data.
[0068] Moreover, it is advantageous to evaluate whether a removal
procedure was not carried out within a prescribed time
interval--especially not by the latest possible pick-up time. In
this case, it is advantageous to generate an appropriate pick-up
order.
[0069] In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, the generated pick-up order is recorded as the
destination or as an interim stop in a navigation system of a
vehicle.
[0070] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the controller of
the container ensures that a container pops open again
automatically if no information that is associated with a mailpiece
is or has been recorded.
[0071] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the controller ensures that the
container pops open again automatically if no removal data is or
has been recorded.
[0072] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention is characterized in that the controller
ensures that the device is opened up again automatically if no
information that is associated with a mailpiece is or has been
recorded.
[0073] A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container
and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention provides that the controller ensures that the
device is opened up again if no removal data is or has been
recorded.
[0074] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a
plurality of detection devices for removal procedures.
[0075] Advantageous refinements of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention comprise detection devices that are located in an
area of the device and/or of a container contained in the
device.
[0076] However, it is likewise possible that the detection devices
involve the use of at least one reading device that can interact
with the device and/or with the container contained in the
device.
[0077] A refinement provides that the interaction device comprises
at least one transponder.
[0078] A preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the
transponder is located inside the device.
[0079] In order to prevent an inadvertent reading out of the
transponder and/or a fraudulent reading out of the
transponder--especially by persons who are not authorized to remove
the mailpieces--it is advantageous for the transponder to be
located in a Faraday cage.
[0080] A refinement provides that the Faraday cage is formed, at
least in sections, by a wall of the device or of one of the
containers contained therein for holding mailpieces.
[0081] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a device for measuring the filling level is located in
the storage space and serves as a removal detection device.
[0082] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a catching
device is arranged inside the storage space.
[0083] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a lip is
installed at the of the roller shutter facing the storage space and
it serves as a device for measuring the filling level. The lip is
deflected when it makes contact with an object in the storage space
and it is in communication with an evaluation means that reports
the need for a removal of mailpieces when a defined deflection of
the lip is reached.
[0084] It is especially advantageous to equip the device and/or the
container in such a way that the transponder is located in an area
of the device and/or of the container that is not accessible from
the outside.
[0085] An interaction of the transponder with a reading unit
provided for the transaction can be recorded as a removal
procedure.
[0086] Moreover, it is possible to record the removal procedure in
another manner.
[0087] In order to detect information, it is advantageous to use at
least one sensor. The sensor is, for example, an optical sensor
and/or a weight sensor.
[0088] Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention comprise
sensor-transponder units in which a sensor and a transponder are
connected to each other. Here, it is possible that measured data
detected by the sensor is transmitted to the transponder and
detected via the transponder--preferably by a reading unit.
[0089] In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a filling level sensor, for example, is provided. This
makes it possible to automatically check whether an emptying
procedure has taken place.
[0090] The exemplary embodiments shown make it possible to ensure
that a removal procedure is only registered once the device and/or
the container have been opened.
[0091] The sensors provided in a refinement of an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention also make it possible to
substantiate that the removal has actually taken place.
[0092] Moreover, it is possible to provide the device with a
suitable evaluation unit. This evaluation unit can be used, for
example, to check whether a person picking up the mailpieces is
authorized to open the device and/or the container.
[0093] Here, an identification of the person picking up the
mailpieces is advantageous.
[0094] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method is
carried out in a device that will also be referred to below as a
drop-off station. The device has a housing that is not accessible
to a customer. The term customer is used to refer to a person who
drops off mailpieces at the device for purposes of franking. As
soon as the customer has placed the mailpieces into the device, or
she no longer has the possibility to gain access to the mailpieces.
However, the device is accessible to service personnel who have
access to the various technical components. For this purpose, one
or more closable doors can be provided that grant access to the
technical parts of the device. The device is also accessible to
employees of the operator of the device, who remove dropped-off
mailpieces and take them to the transportation and delivery
process.
[0095] For the pick-up and subsequent transportation, the delivered
mailpieces are preferably collected in a container that is likewise
accessible through a lockable door. The container is, for example,
a mailbag that can be hung in the device in such a way that the
franked mailpieces are collected in it. The filled mailbag can be
removed and replaced by an empty bag. The collecting container,
however, can also be other replaceable containers such as boxes. In
another exemplary embodiment, the mailpieces are collected inside
the device and transferred to a separate container when an employee
picks them up. With all of the variants, it can be provided that
the device checks the filling level of the collecting container in
question. If the collecting container is filled up to a
predefinable level, the operator of the device is notified that it
needs to be emptied. Moreover, the receipt of additional mailpieces
at the device can be refused.
[0096] In order to be used in outdoor areas, the device is
advantageously configured to be tamper-proof and weather-resistant.
It is preferably set up in public places and allows 24-hour
operation. As a result, a customer can drop off mailpieces at any
time without having to take into account the opening times of the
branch offices.
[0097] The device has a receiving device for receiving mailpieces.
This receiving device is preferably an individuating mechanism for
feeding a stack of mailpieces into the device one at a time. The
individuating mechanism can be a prior-art device that allows the
individuation. The customer places a stack of mailpieces, for
example, into a receiving opening and closes the cover flap behind
which the mailpieces are fed in. Individual mailpieces can likewise
be received by the device via the feed mechanism. The device can
also have a slit like conventional mailboxes so that individual
mailpieces can be dropped in.
[0098] Preferably, the device can receive franked as well as
unfranked mailpieces. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,
the device is configured in such a way that it cannot distinguish
between these two types of mailpieces. In this case, the customer
is prompted to insert franked or unfranked mailpieces, and to
indicate what type of mailpieces they are. If the device has a
detector to distinguish between unfranked and franked mailpieces,
then the customer can insert a mixture of mailpieces. The unfranked
and franked mailpieces can be recognized, for example, by an
evaluation of graphic information on the surface of the
mailpiece.
[0099] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the orientation
of the mailpieces inside the device and graphic information on the
mailpieces are detected and, on the basis of an evaluation of this
information, the mailpieces are rotated and turned over so that
they can be printed with a correctly positioned postage indicium on
one side. The graphic information is address and/or sender
information that is evaluated according to a predefined scheme. In
another exemplary embodiment of the invention, printing devices are
provided on both sides of the mailpieces so that, on the basis of
the detected graphic information, only the side of a mailpiece
intended for printing on is ascertained and the appropriate
printing device is actuated on this side.
[0100] Moreover, the device can provide that the customer has to
insert the mailpieces into the device in a specific orientation.
For example, if it is required that the mailpiece be inserted in an
orientation in which the address field is facing upwards, then the
graphic information present on the mailpiece is evaluated on this
basis and a mailpiece is rejected again, for example, if the
mailpiece was inserted incorrectly. The orientation of a mailpiece
can be recognized, for example, by taking a picture of the
mailpiece using a digital camera. The picture is taken one line at
a time at a fixed distance and a fixed focal length, and
subsequently merged to form the total picture. On the basis of this
picture and a comparison with previously defined measurements of
the address zone of various letter formats, the picture evaluation
recognizes whether an address is present in the prescribed address
zone. If an address is detected there, then the mailpiece has been
inserted incorrectly and further processing is denied. The
procedure can be carried out analogously for mailpieces inserted in
a portrait orientation rather than landscape orientation.
[0101] The device can also comprise containers for dropping off or
removing transportation containers. If a customer inserts a large
volume of mailpieces into the device, the operator of the drop-off
station provides him or her with transportation containers with
which or she can transport the mailpieces to the station. So that
the customer does not have to take the containers back with him or
her again, the containers can be placed into containers of the
device. The customer can also remove additional containers from the
containers. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the
containers can also be used to hold containers with many mailpieces
that preferably already have been franked. They can also hold
containers with unfranked mailpieces that are not going to be
franked by the device but rather, a subsequent franking procedure
carried out by the operator of the device. In the latter two cases,
the device serves merely as a receiving device. The access to the
containers is preferably coupled to the successful identification
of the customer at the device, whereby a container cannot be opened
again after the mailpieces have been removed.
[0102] In another exemplary embodiment, the drop-off station is
combined with a vending machine for dispensing stamps so that a
customer can purchase postage indicia of any desired value at the
device. The postage indicia can be paid for using cash, a debit
card or else by a customer card needed to gain access to the
device. In addition to postage indicia, forms or other documents
that are normally available at a branch office can be
dispensed.
[0103] The mailpieces to be deposited can be, for example, of
different types that are each associated with certain process
steps. In typical logistics systems, for example, in the postal
sector, parcels or packages are associated with identifiers such as
codes so that the route of a given mailpiece can be controlled and
monitored as effectively as possible. Conventionally, such a code
has to be detected by a detector when a mailpiece is deposited. For
example, a postal number in the form of a scanned code or a
character string entered via a keyboard is recorded.
[0104] Whereas the recording of a postal number that identifies the
mailpiece is advantageously provided for each mailpiece, it is also
possible for mailpieces to be encountered that are additionally
provided with a special Identcode that likewise has to be scanned
before the mailpiece is dropped off. Moreover, it could be a COD
mailpiece with COD amounts that have to be entered or any other
kind of special mailpiece involving additional steps.
[0105] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provides that the reading unit or a data processing unit
in communication with it evaluates the removal data.
[0106] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that the removal data is stored.
[0107] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
removal data is stored in a storage medium installed in the
container.
[0108] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that the removal data is stored in
the reading unit and/or in the data processing unit that is in
communication with the reading unit.
[0109] An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides that the
removal data is stored only in the reading unit and/or in the data
processing unit that is in communication with said reading unit.
This has the advantage that storage space in the containers is
saved so that they can be produced more easily.
[0110] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
data processing unit carries out an evaluation of the removal
data.
[0111] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that at least one handling procedure
involving the container is carried out as a function of the
evaluation.
[0112] It is advantageous for the selection of another
transportation system to be made, for example, if there is a risk
that, if an originally intended transportation route is retained,
the mailpieces will have a longer transportation duration than a
predefinable target transportation duration.
[0113] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that a position of the transponder is
determined.
[0114] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
position of the container is stored.
[0115] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that the position is stored in the
data processing unit.
[0116] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
position of the container is determined and that the position of
the container is associated with the obtained removal data.
[0117] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that energy is supplied to the
transponder.
[0118] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
energy is supplied via the reading unit.
[0119] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container, of the transportation system and of the computer program
product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is characterized in that an interlayer absorbs
electromagnetic radiation.
[0120] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
interlayer reflects electromagnetic radiation.
[0121] Many types of transponders are suitable for use according to
an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Special
preference is given to transponders that serve as transmitting
and/or receiving devices. In particular, these are receiving
devices that, after receiving an external signal, are capable of
transmitting a signal of their own.
[0122] As used herein, the term "transponder" is short for
"transmitter" and "(signal) responder".
[0123] Special preference is given to the use of transponders that
are provided with at least one identifier. Below, such transponders
are also referred to as RFID tags.
[0124] It is advantageous to replace or augment a visually
detectable identification of objects in transportation or logistics
systems using RFID technologies involving transponders that can be
written and read electronically multiple times. Such systems have
the advantage that a great deal of information can be
electronically written into and read out of a transponder, as a
result of which automatic transportation, sorting, tracking or
distribution procedures can be controlled without information
having to be displayed visually.
[0125] A transponder with identifiers (RFID tags) is preferably
configured as an RFID tag. An RFID tag may comprise a microchip and
an antenna. A code containing processing-relevant information is
stored on the chip. In particular, this information is
identification information (ID).
[0126] Transponders may be configured in such a way that, in
response to a triggering (radio) signal from a reading device, they
themselves transmit and/or receive signals. Active transponders
contain a source of energy for their operation. In contrast,
passive transponders obtain energy from the signals transmitted by
the reading device.
[0127] The technical realization of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention preferably comprises a database containing
information about the goods to be delivered and about at least one
device provided for receiving the mailpieces.
[0128] It is especially advantageous for the database to contain
information about several devices for receiving mailpieces.
[0129] The transmission of selected, compressed and/or reduced
values has the advantage that storage and transmission capacities
can be utilized more efficiently.
[0130] Numerous types of reading devices are possible when
transponders are used for relaying the measured values. [0131]
Antennas are used that are tuned to the specific wavelength of the
electromagnetic radiation of the transponders.
[0132] It is especially advantageous for the reading unit that is
going to be used in each case to be equipped with the BRM function
known from the state of the art.
[0133] The BRM function (Buffered Read Mode=data filtering and data
storage) ensures that the data from transponders that have already
been read out are buffered in the reader and is only read out once.
This advantage plays a role in applications with bulk recognition
(anti-collision) since only "new" transponders are read out each
time. Consequently, this increases the data transfer speed.
[0134] The information acquired in this manner is subsequently
further processed.
[0135] Various transmission modalities can be employed for the
transmission to the reading unit.
[0136] The reading unit is arranged in a transportation system for
the container, in a warehouse or in a processing center for the
container.
[0137] A data processing unit that can preferably be in
communication with the reading unit receives this removal data from
the reading unit.
[0138] A refinement of the method is characterized in that the
position of the container is determined by a position-finding
device that is in communication with the container, and the
position of the container is associated with the obtained removal
data. In this case, the position of the container can be determined
by a position-finding device directly on the container or on a
transportation system with which the container is being
transported. If the position-finding device is situated on an
appertaining transportation system, it is preferably in
communication with the data processing unit of the container.
[0139] The position of the container can be determined, for
example, by a position-finding device in the form of a GSM module,
a GPS module, and/or a direction-finding transmitter. The various
position-finding devices can be used as a function of the required
precision of the position determination, whereby they can be used
either perpendicularly or in parallel.
[0140] A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the
container and of the computer program product according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the
removal data obtained from the sensors is compared to set points,
whereby a deviation from a set point is considered as an alarm. The
removal data is preferably compared in that the measured electrical
properties of the conductive layers are compared to a set point of
the electrical properties. Here, it can be provided that a
deviation of the physical properties of the container material from
a set point is not considered as an alarm if the deviation is
associated with a position of the container that is stored in the
data processing unit as a position in which it is permissible to
open the container.
[0141] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the removal
data obtained from the sensor is transmitted to a communication
module on the container and the communication module transmits the
removal data to a message-receiving device.
[0142] A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provides for the use of at least one transponder as the
communication module.
[0143] The removal data can be transmitted from the communication
module to the message-receiving device along the transportation
route or after the container has reached the destination.
Preferably, the removal data is only transmitted along the
transportation route if a comparison within the data processing
unit indicates that a deviation from set points--especially from
target times for pick-up procedures (receiving procedures)--has
occurred.
[0144] The determination of the position of the container and the
association of the position with the removal data obtained from the
sensor is preferably carried out in the data processing unit of the
container, but this can also be done in the message-receiving
device or in the monitoring center.
[0145] Another exemplary embodiment of the invention provides that
the container is equipped with a detection device for registering
the mailpieces in the container and that data about the detected
mailpieces is transmitted to the data processing unit.
[0146] As the detection device, an antenna, for example, can be
provided. The mailpieces are registered in that the RFID tags
located on the mailpieces are read out when the RFID tags are moved
past the antenna during a removal procedure of the mailpieces.
[0147] Moreover, the container can be provided with a bulk
detection device that detects the mailpieces once all of the
mailpieces have been placed into the container.
[0148] When the mailpieces are detected, at least the number of
mailpieces placed into the containers is registered in the data
processing unit. Each mailpieces removed from the container reduces
the number of mailpieces recorded in the data processing unit.
[0149] In addition to the number of mailpieces placed into the
container, preferably additional data about the mailpieces is
recorded. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the number
of mailpieces and/or additional data about the registered
mailpieces is transmitted from the data processing unit to the
communication module which then sends the information to a
message-receiving device. The message-receiving device can be
located, for example, in the vicinity of the receiving location of
the mailpieces or in the vicinity of a monitoring center.
[0150] This information can be read out and further processed via
an interface.
[0151] A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention also comprises--in addition to a method for monitoring a
container--a container having a monitor according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0152] The devices are preferably set up at easily accessible
locations so that the customer can decide to drop off a mailpiece
flexibly or even spontaneously.
[0153] Moreover, through the connection with a central data
processing unit, information about the dropped-off mailpieces
and/or the removed mailpieces can be updated in the database and
the operation of the device can be adapted to changing
requirements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0154] The figure shows the following:
[0155] FIG. 1 is a cross-section view through a device 10 according
to the invention for receiving mailpieces.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
[0156] The device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention comprises a container (housing) 20 that encloses
a hollow space 40 that is, for example, cuboidal.
[0157] The container 20 shown schematically in FIG. 1 for receiving
and transporting mailpieces--for example, letters--can be, for
instance, a cuboidal container having a bottom surface, four side
walls and a lid arrangement. The container can be made of various
materials--commonly used for mailboxes--such as wood, plastic,
metal or combinations thereof.
[0158] The device can be set up in many locations, whereby several
devices are preferably provided. In order to ensure the greatest
possible flexibility, the devices are located at places that are
easily accessible to customers and are preferably available 24
hours per day. Thus, customers can select a time of day that is
convenient for them to drop off a mailpiece. It is especially
advantageous to set up the devices at locations such as gas
stations, department stores or supermarkets that are often visited
by customers.
[0159] When metal is used as the container material, the container
20 itself forms a Faraday cage. If a material is used that has only
a low level of conductivity--for example, a plastic--then it is
advantageous to provide preferably the inside of the housing 20
with an electrically conductive coating 30 in order to create a
Faraday cage. The electrically conductive--coating 30 is, for
example, a layer produced by a conventional coating production
method. However, it is likewise possible to use a conventional
metal foil--for example, aluminum foil--for this purpose.
[0160] By forming a Faraday cage, it is then possible to read a
transponder 60 only if a reading device is placed into the
container 10. In the exemplary embodiment described here, this is
only possible when another container 50, which is located in the
container 10 and serves to receive the mailpieces, is removed from
the container 10.
[0161] It is practical to connect the transponder 60 to a sensor
70, for example, a sensor for measuring the filling level of the
mailpieces (filling level measuring device). This connection is
preferably made by a connection element 80, for example, a cable
strip.
[0162] Using the device according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, the method is carried out as follows:
[0163] A person picking up mailpieces opens the container 10 and
removes the additional container 50 contained therein.
[0164] Immediately after the removal of the container 50, the
person picking up the mailpieces holds a reading device in an area
of influence of the transponder 60.
[0165] In a first exemplary embodiment, an interaction between the
transponder 60 and the reading device 70 is considered to be a
removal procedure. The background of this detection is that the
interaction between the reading device 70 and the transponder 60
can only take place if previously, the container 50 containing the
mailpieces was taken out of the device 10.
[0166] In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, the filling level sensor 70, for example, a suitable
optical sensor, detects a maximum filling level for the
mailpieces.
[0167] The person skilled in the art in the realm of logistics
systems can adapt the presented device for receiving mailpieces in
different ways in order to meet specific postal requirements.
[0168] In particular, the mailpieces can be stored directly, also
without the use of another container 50, inside the hollow space
40.
[0169] Moreover, it is possible to use an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention with more complex receiving devices for
mailpieces, for example, for the letter stations used by the
applicant of this patent application.
[0170] When an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is
used in electronically controlled devices for receiving mailpieces,
it is advantageous to detect a suitable event as the removal
procedure.
[0171] In an exemplary embodiment, this can also be done in this
device in that a container for storing mailpieces is removed and/or
tilted in such a way that the mailpieces contained therein are
transferred into a suitable transportation container.
[0172] Of course, the container 50 that serves for receiving the
mailpieces can likewise be used as a transportation container for
the mailpieces.
[0173] Refinements of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention provide for the container 50 to also be equipped with a
transponder. This is especially advantageous if tracking and/or
tracing of mailpieces or of the container holding them is
desired.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0174] 10 device
[0175] 20 container (housing)
[0176] 30 coating
[0177] 40 hollow space, interior
[0178] 50 container
[0179] 60 transponder
[0180] 70 sensor, reading device
[0181] 80 connection means
* * * * *