U.S. patent application number 14/892996 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-28 for rollable transport container and method for transporting goods to be transported by means of a transport container of this type.
This patent application is currently assigned to WRH Walter Reist Holding AG. The applicant listed for this patent is WRH WALTER REIST HOLDING AG. Invention is credited to Markus FELIX, Martin RUGE.
Application Number | 20160114956 14/892996 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51136406 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160114956 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FELIX; Markus ; et
al. |
April 28, 2016 |
ROLLABLE TRANSPORT CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING GOODS TO
BE TRANSPORTED BY MEANS OF A TRANSPORT CONTAINER OF THIS TYPE
Abstract
The invention relates to a rollable transport container (1)
comprising an outer shell (2) that can roll on a support, and an
inner holder (3) for holding goods to be transported (5). Bearing
means (4) are configured to allow the inner holder (3) to be
rotatably arranged in the outer shell (2). The bearing means (4)
are only in a central and/or lower region of the rollable transport
body (1).
Inventors: |
FELIX; Markus; (Richterswil,
CH) ; RUGE; Martin; (Starrkirch-Wil, CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
WRH WALTER REIST HOLDING AG |
Ermatingen |
|
CH |
|
|
Assignee: |
WRH Walter Reist Holding AG
Ermatingen
CH
|
Family ID: |
51136406 |
Appl. No.: |
14/892996 |
Filed: |
May 28, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
May 28, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2014/001445 |
371 Date: |
November 20, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/459.5 ;
206/583; 53/473 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/07 20130101;
G07F 11/34 20130101; B65B 35/30 20130101; B65D 11/06 20130101; B65G
1/08 20130101; B65D 11/02 20130101; B65D 81/113 20130101; G07F
11/10 20130101; B65D 81/02 20130101; B65D 81/09 20130101; B65G 1/04
20130101; B65B 61/22 20130101; B65G 1/137 20130101; B65G 1/16
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/07 20060101
B65D081/07; B65B 35/30 20060101 B65B035/30; B65D 8/00 20060101
B65D008/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 31, 2013 |
CH |
01040/13 |
May 31, 2013 |
CH |
01041/13 |
May 31, 2013 |
CH |
01042/13 |
Mar 24, 2014 |
CH |
00446/14 |
May 12, 2014 |
CH |
00709/14 |
Claims
1. A rollable transport container (1) comprising: an outside shell
(2) which is rollable along a support and an inside holder (3) for
holding goods to be transported (5), wherein bearing means (4)
mount the inside holder (3) so as to be rotatable in the outside
shell (2), wherein the bearing means (4) are only in a central
and/or bottom region of the rollable transport body (1).
2. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) are supported so as to be displaceable and/or
rotatable on the outside shell (2).
3. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) mount the inside holder (3) so as to be
displaceable and/or rotatable in relation to the centre point of
the transport container.
4. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) include one or several bar-shaped profiles (40)
on which the inside holder (3) is arranged.
5. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) include several supporting devices (41, 42) for
support on the outside shell (2).
6. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) includes a ring-shaped support device (48), the
outside surface of which is for support on the outside shell (2)
and on the inside surface of which the inside holder (2) is
rotatably mounted.
7. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) include one or more roller bearings (45, 46).
8. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the
bearing means (4) are supported in a stationary manner on the
outside shell (2).
9. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) support the inside holder (3) so as to be
slidable or slippable in the outside shell (2).
10. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) is positioned on the inside holder (3) for
sliding or slipping in relation to the outside shell (2).
11. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bearing means (4) include ball-shaped bodies (471, 472, 473) which
are inserted into socket-shaped recesses (371, 372, 373) of the
inside holder (3), wherein the ball-shaped bodies (471, 472, 473)
are supported so as to be rollable on the outside shell (2).
12. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
outside shell (2) is ball-shaped.
13. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
outside shell (2) is cylindrical or barrel-shaped.
14. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
inside holder (3) comprises an asymmetrical shape.
15. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein one
or several more additional weights are provided.
16. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
inside holder (3) comprises a holding means to hold goods to be
transported (5) in the inside holder (3).
17. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
outside shell (2) and the inside holder (3) are set up in order to
arrange goods to be transported (5) therein and to remove them
therefrom.
18. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
outside shell (2) and/or the inside holder (3) are composed of
several parts.
19. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 18, wherein the
outside shell (2) and/or the inside holder (3) includes two or more
parts which make possible the opening and closing of the outside
shell (2) and/or of the inside holder (3).
20. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, further
comprising an identification means which is interrogatable from the
outside.
21. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 20, wherein the
identification means which is interrogatable from the outside is an
optically readable code and/or an RFID tag which is interrogatable
in a radio-based manner.
22. The transport container (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
goods to be transported (5) are observable from the outside.
23. A method for transporting goods to be transported (5), wherein
at a departure point (202), the goods to be transported (5) are
arranged in a transport container (1) according to claim 1, wherein
the transport container (1) is moved from the departure point (202)
to a destination (302) and wherein the goods to be transported (5)
are removed out of the transport container (1) at the destination
(302).
24. The method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the goods to be
transported (5) are arranged in the transport container (1) using a
loading device and/or in that the goods to be transported (5) are
removed out of the transport container (1) using an unloading
device.
25. The method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the transport
container (1) rolls along at least one part section between the
departure point (202) and the destination (302).
26. The method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the transport
container (1) is stored temporarily in a storage device (110)
between the departure point (202) and the destination (302).
27. The method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the emptied
transport container (1) is moved from the destination (302) back to
the departure point (202).
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the area of transport and
of the warehousing arrangement of goods to be transported. It
relates to a rollable transport container according to the preamble
of claim 1.
[0003] It further relates to a method for transporting goods to be
transported by means of a transport container of this type.
[0004] 2. Discussion of Related Art
[0005] Different transport containers are known for the packing and
the transporting of goods, for example boxes, crates, pallets, etc.
Known transport containers can be transported on transport
trolleys, transport conveyors, etc. in order to make it possible
for goods to be transported from a point of departure to a
destination. Often smaller units are joined together in a logistics
center, storage center etc. to form larger units, which are then
transported over larger distances by lorry, train or aircraft etc.,
and are then separated out into smaller units again in order to
transport them to different destinations in a local environment.
Energy expenditure for transporting the goods can be optimized as a
result.
[0006] The transport containers are adapted in each case to a
certain application. Cardboard boxes are often used to dispatch
light and sturdy goods by mail and very heavy or very sensitive
goods are transported in wooden crates, etc.
[0007] JP 2006016044 shows a rollable transport container which is
able to roll along a sloping support from a departure point to a
destination without the input of power. Two half-spheres which form
one outside container part are hingably connected to a hinge and
can be closed by way of a closure. Two smaller half-spheres which
form an inside container part are also hingably connected to a
hinge and can be closed by way of a further closure. The inside
container part can be inserted into the outside container part and
comprises a plurality of pin-like coupling elements which are
distributed over the entire outside surface of the inside container
part. The pin-like coupling elements comprise ball-shaped ends
which support the inside container part in the outside container
part in such a manner that the inside container part is able to
rotate freely in the outside container part. Goods to be
transported are held centrally in the second container part. When
the outside container part is rolled along a support, the inside
container part remains aligned in the same manner in relation to
the support, in particular on account of a weight element which is
arranged close to the support in the inside container part.
[0008] Publication CN 201942318 U discloses an intelligent system
for real-time processing of orders with automatic shipment of goods
to the customers, said system operates with ball-shaped transport
containers which in each case include a ball-shaped shell and an
insert arranged therein which is adapted to a rectangular,
cylindrical or round container which is situated in the ball and
ultimately receives the actual goods. Said system is designed for
long transport paths between the seller of the goods and the
customer receiving the goods by means of transport tubes and
transport routes which are mainly laid underground in towns and
cities and in the country.
[0009] A disadvantage in the case of the known transport containers
is that the input of energy is necessary for transport from a
departure point to a destination or that a rollable transport
container comprises a very complicated design which is not suitable
for the dispatch of large amounts of goods. No suitable transport
containers are known from the prior art in particular for efficient
and economic stock management.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] It is consequently an object of the invention to create a
rollable transport container which comprises the desired
characteristics and to provide a method for transporting goods to
be transported by means of a transport container of this type.
[0011] The object is achieved by the features of the independent
claims.
[0012] The rollable transport container according to the invention
includes an outside shell which is rollable along a support and an
inside holder which is realized for holding the goods to be
transported, wherein bearing means are realized in order to mount
the inside holder so as to be rotatable in the outside shell. The
rollable transport container according to the invention is
characterized in that the bearing means are realized only in a
central and/or bottom region of the rollable transport body. The
design of the rollable transport container can be greatly
simplified, the goods to be transported always remaining aligned
substantially in the same manner in relation to the support, in
particular with a corresponding weight distribution, when the
rollable transport container rolls along a support. When the
transport container rolls, the goods to be transported do not also
rotate with the transport container, but always remain aligned
substantially in the same manner in relation to the direction of
gravity. This means that the goods to be transported are able to be
transported in a careful manner. The rollable transport container
is able to be rolled along a sloping support from a higher
departure point to a lower destination without any input of
energy.
[0013] One development of the transport container is characterized
in that the bearing means are supported so as to be displaceable
and/or rotatable on the outside shell. As a result of the
displacement and/or rotation, a desired alignment of the goods to
be transported in relation to the support can be achieved in
particular when the rollable transport holder rolls along a curved
support.
[0014] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means include one or several
bar-shaped profiles on which the inside holder is arranged.
Bar-shaped profiles make it possible to produce a cost-efficient
and sturdy bearing means.
[0015] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means include several supporting
devices for support on the outside shell. Two or more supporting
devices can be provided. The supporting devices can be realized in
a flattened dome-shaped manner. The flattened dome shape is adapted
in particular to a ball-shaped and/or cylindrical outside shell.
The supporting devices can have a different shape which is adapted
to the outside shell.
[0016] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means includes a ring-shaped
support device, the outside surface of which is realized for
support on the outside shell and on the inside surface of which the
inside holder is rotatably mounted. The ring-shaped support device
is domed, for example, on the outside surface and can rotate
freely, for example, in the outside shell, but always remains
arranged in a central region of the rollable transport
container.
[0017] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means include one or several
roller bearings. The roller bearings are realized, for example, as
ball bearings. Roller bearings with a low level of frictional
resistance make it possible for the inside holder to be mounted in
a very easily accessible manner in the outside shell.
[0018] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means are supported in a
stationary manner on the outside shell. As a result of the
stationary arrangement, a desired alignment of the goods to be
transported in relation to the support can be achieved in
particular when the rollable transport holder rolls along a curved
support.
[0019] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means support the inside holder
so as to be rollable in the outside shell. This can be provided in
addition to or as an alternative to other bearing means. The
performance with the rollable transport container rolling can
consequently be adapted, for example, to further applications.
[0020] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means are realized on the inside
holder which is realized so as to be rollable on the outside shell.
The rollable transport container is consequently realized in a
particularly simple and sturdy manner.
[0021] In order to promote the rolling of the inside holder on the
outside shell, it is possible to provide suitable material pairings
for the relevant parts, a lubricant between the relevant parts or
liquids or fluids between the relevant parts. If a liquid or a
fluid is present between the outside shell and the inside holder,
the center of gravity of the transport container can consequently
be kept lower, in particular in the event of liquids or fluids with
a high density.
[0022] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the bearing means include ball-shaped bodies
which are inserted into socket-shaped recesses of the inside
holder, wherein the ball-shaped bodies are supported so as to be
rollable on the outside shell. A simply designed, durable and
sturdy rollable transport container can be created as a result.
[0023] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the outside shell is realized in a
ball-shaped manner.
[0024] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the outside shell is realized in a
cylindrical or barrel-shaped manner.
[0025] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the inside holder is realized in an
asymmetrical manner. The asymmetrical realization makes it possible
to distribute the weight of the inside holder in a desired manner
and, as a result, the center of gravity of the inside holder can be
moved to a desired position.
[0026] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that one or several additional weights are
provided. An additional weight can be mounted on or in the inside
holder. As an alternative to this or in addition to it, an
additional weight can be provided between the inside holder and the
outside shell, for example in the form of balls. The center of
gravity of both the inside holder and of the transport container
can be further influenced as a result.
[0027] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the inside holder comprises a holding means
in order to hold goods to be transported in the inside holder. The
goods to be transported can be prevented from slipping as a result.
The slipping of the goods to be transported can cause a rolling
performance of the rollable transport container to be
unfavorable.
[0028] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the outside shell and the inside holder are
set up in order to arrange goods to be transported therein and to
remove them therefrom. Flaps, openings, etc. can be provided.
[0029] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the outside shell and/or the inside holder
are composed of several parts.
[0030] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the outside shell and/or the inside holder
includes two or more parts which make possible the opening and
closing of the outside shell and/or of the inside holder. Hinges,
locks, etc. can be provided. The parts can be provided so as to be
screw-connectable together or connectable together in a different
manner.
[0031] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that there is an identification means which is
interrogatable from the outside. The identification means is
mounted, for example, on the inside holder or on the outside shell.
The identification means includes, in particular, specifications
relating to the goods to be transported. This makes automated stock
management possible.
[0032] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the identification means which is
interrogatable from the outside is an optically readable code
and/or an RFID tag which is interrogatable in a radio-based manner.
The optically readable code can be mounted multiple times in order
to make the reading of it possible irrespective of the position of
the rollable transport container.
[0033] The goods to be transported can relate to any goods
whatsoever such as, for example, electronic items, pharmaceuticals,
books, DVDs, etc.
[0034] In order to make the goods to be transported identifiable at
all times without having to open the rollable transport container,
a tag, in particular an RFID element or RFID tag, which can be
read-off by way of corresponding wirelessly operating means, can be
mounted, as mentioned, on the outside or on the inside. A bar code
can be provided as an alternative to or in addition to the RFID
element. Both elements include information concerning the goods to
be transported that makes it possible to identify the goods to be
transported in an unambiguous manner. Other types of mounted codes
such as, for example, matrix codes, color codes, numeric codes,
thermocodes or holograms are also conceivable as information and/or
identification means or security features. All said means are able
to be read optically, magnetically or by radio, either as passive
means which can be interrogated from the outside or as active means
which themselves carry out a data transfer.
[0035] The rollable transport container can be provided over and
above this with its own intelligence, for example in the form of
electronic means for data or signal processing, for example with a
microprocessor and corresponding data storage units. Associated
sending and receiving devices can exchange signals wirelessly with
the environment, in this case, via antennae elements mounted on the
outside surface. However, it is also conceivable to arrange at
certain points of the shell, electric contacts which are accessible
from the outside and via which internal circuits can be
accessed.
[0036] In conjunction with internal electronic devices of the
rollable transport body, internal energy storage means and/or
energy converters can be provided which store mechanical energy
(spring, gas pressure), thermal energy (heat accumulator) or
electromagnetic energy (capacitor, battery, accumulator, coil etc.)
or generate energy (piezoelectric converter, inductive converter
etc.).
[0037] In addition, it is conceivable to provide, inside the
rollable transport body, position finding means, by means of which
the destination of the unit can be determined and kept track of at
all times. In the extreme case, position finding by means of the
GPS system or comparable systems is considered in this case.
Permanent magnets, which can be interrogated from the outside or
can trigger switching operations when passing certain locations,
can also be arranged inside the rollable transport body.
[0038] Another development of the transport container is
characterized in that the goods to be transported are observable
from the outside. For example, the outside shell comprises
transparent parts, openings, a grid structure, etc. As the goods to
be transported are always aligned in the same manner in relation to
the support when the rollable transport container is rolling, the
goods to be transported can always be observed from the same view,
for example a code or another identification means of the goods to
be transported is always observable.
[0039] The outside shell of the rollable transport body shown in
the present figures is that surface by way of which the rollable
transport body rolls along a support. It should consequently
comprise a sufficient hardness in order to be adequate over a
sufficiently long service life to the frictional and/or impact
loads that occur during the rolling operation.
[0040] The surface of the outside shell can be realized in a smooth
manner, but can also comprise nubs and indentations as in the case
of a golf ball in order to produce certain running or rolling
characteristics. In addition, if rolling in arbitrary directions is
not desired, one or several circumferential guide beads can be
provided on the outside surface which impart a certain preferred
direction to the rolling movement.
[0041] Suitable plastics materials which comprise different degrees
of transparency but can also be totally opaque are possible in
particular as materials. In individual cases it is also conceivable
to use a toughened glass as material for the outside shell, such as
is used, for example, in a similar manner in the case of reusable
beverage bottles. However, in particular cases, the outside shell
can also be produced from a suitable metal or a metal alloy if, for
example, thermal or electromagnetic, in particular for example
shielding, characteristics are important.
[0042] Insofar as the shell material is opaque by nature, local
inspection of the interior can be provided at certain points of the
shell by inspection windows being mounted there.
[0043] In the case of a method according to the invention for
transporting goods to be transported, at a departure point the
goods to be transported are arranged in a transport container
according to the invention. The transport container is moved from
the departure point to a destination. For example, the transport
container is rolled, moved by a conveyor belt etc. The goods to be
transported are removed out of the transport container at the
destination. As a result of rolling along a sloping support, the
transport is effected without any input of external energy by the
potential energy of the transport holder being utilized. The goods
to be transported are always aligned in the same manner in relation
to the support and are consequently transported in a careful
manner.
[0044] Another development of the method is characterized in that
the goods to be transported are arranged in the transport container
using a loading device and/or that the goods to be transported are
removed out of the transport container using an unloading device.
Fully automated management of a warehouse is made possible as a
result.
[0045] Another development of the method is characterized in that
the transport container rolls along at least one part section
between the departure point and the destination. The transport
holder is rolled along a support such as, in particular, along a
selectable rolling track. As a result, the transporting of a
transport object is made possible along the at least one part
section without the input of external energy. The rollable
transport body is able to roll along straight and/or curved
supports.
[0046] Another development of the method is characterized in that
the transport container is stored temporarily in a storage device
between the departure point and the destination. An arbitrary
number of storage devices with an arbitrary storage volume can be
arranged in a warehouse as required.
[0047] Another development of the method is characterized in that
the emptied transport container is moved from the destination back
to the departure point. The transport container is rolled back in
particular from the destination to the departure point along one or
several rolling tracks and/or is guided back with one or several
transport devices. The transport holder is reusable and can be
supplied for refilling immediately after having been emptied.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] The invention is to be explained in more detail below by way
of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing, in
which:
[0049] FIG. 1 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a central region of the
rollable transport container and comprise flattened dome-shaped
supporting devices and bar-shaped profiles;
[0050] FIG. 2 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a central region of the
rollable transport container and can only be displaced in a limited
manner in relation to the outside shell;
[0051] FIG. 3 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a central region of the
rollable transport container and comprise roller bearings;
[0052] FIG. 4 shows a sectional view of the variant of a rollable
transport container shown in FIG. 3;
[0053] FIG. 5 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a bottom region of the
rollable transport container and comprise ball-shaped rolling
bodies;
[0054] FIG. 5a shows a view of a detail of a ball-shaped rolling
body shown in FIG. 5;
[0055] FIG. 6 shows a sectional view of the variant of a rollable
transport container shown in FIG. 5;
[0056] FIG. 7 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a bottom region of the
rollable transport container and comprise a ring-shaped support
device;
[0057] FIG. 8 shows a variant of a rollable transport container,
having bearing means which are arranged in a bottom region of the
rollable transport container and are realized on the inside
holder;
[0058] FIG. 9 shows a cross section of several sloping supports, a
sloping transport device as well as a storage device with a
rollable transport container;
[0059] FIG. 10 shows a cross section viewed from above of a variant
of a rollable transport container, having a bearing means which is
realized in a cardan-like manner and interacts in a central region
of the rollable transport container between the outside shell and
the inside holder; and
[0060] FIG. 11 shows a cross section viewed from above of a variant
of a rollable transport container, having a bearing means which
comprises ball bodies arranged in socket-like holders and interacts
in a central region of the rollable transport container between the
outside shell and the inside holder.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0061] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and an inside holder
3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2 is
realized in a ball-shaped manner and is rollable along a support.
The inside surface of the outside shell 2 is realized in a
ball-shaped manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to mount
the inside holder 3 so as to be rotatable in the outside shell 2.
The bearing means 4 are realized only in a central region of the
rollable transport container. The central region includes a region
halfway up the rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4
are realized outside said central region for the rotatable bearing
arrangement of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell 2.
[0062] The outside shell of the rollable transport body shown in
the present figures is that surface by way of which the rollable
transport body rolls along a support. It should consequently
comprise a sufficient hardness in order to be adequate over a
sufficiently long service life to the frictional and/or impact
loads occurring during the rolling operation.
[0063] The surface of the outside shell can be realized in a smooth
manner, but can also comprise nubs or local indentations as in the
case of a golf ball in order to produce certain running or rolling
characteristics. In addition, if rolling in arbitrary directions is
not desired, one or several circumferential guide beads can be
provided on the outside surface which impart a certain preferred
direction to the rolling movement.
[0064] Suitable plastics materials which comprise different degrees
of transparency but can also be totally opaque are possible in
particular as materials. In individual cases it is also conceivable
to use a toughened glass as material for the outside shell such as
is used, for example, in a similar manner in the case of reusable
beverage bottles. In particular cases, the outside shell can also
be produced, however, from a suitable metal or a metal alloy if,
for example, thermal or electromagnetic, in particular, for
example, shielding, characteristics are important.
[0065] Insofar as the shell material is opaque by nature, local
inspection of the interior can be provided at certain points of the
shell by inspection windows being mounted there.
[0066] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 1 for the bearing
arrangement of the inside holder 3 include a bar-shaped profile 40
and supporting devices 41, 42 which are connected thereto and are
supported on the inside surface of the outside shell 2. The
supporting devices 41, 42 are realized in the manner of a flattened
dome. The curvature of the flattened dome-shaped supporting devices
41, 42 is realized in a corresponding manner to the curvature of
the ball-shaped inside surface of the outside shell 2. The inside
holder 3 is connected to the bar-shaped profile 40. The bar-shaped
profile 40 can include several parts and penetrate the inside
holder 3, surround the same, etc.
[0067] In one variant, the inside holder 3 is fixedly connected to
the bar-shaped profile 40 and the supporting devices 41, 42 are
rotatable in relation to the outside shell 2. In the position of
the rollable transport container 1 shown in FIG. 1, the inside
holder 3 is consequently mounted in the outside shell 2 so as to be
rotatable around a rotational axis S. The rotating of the
supporting devices 41, 42 in relation to the outside shell 2 is
made possible or promoted by suitable material pairings for the
relevant parts, lubricant between the relevant parts, liquids or
fluids between the relevant parts etc.
[0068] If a liquid or a fluid is present between the outside shell
2 and the inside holder 3, the center of gravity of the transport
container can then be kept lower as a result, in particular in the
event of liquids or fluids with a high density.
[0069] In one variant, the inside holder 3 is arranged so as to be
rotatable on the bar-shaped profile 40. As an alternative to this
or in addition to it, the bar-shaped profile 40 is rotatably
connected to the supporting devices 41, 42. The rotatable
arrangement is created, for example, with roller bearings. In the
position of the rollable transport container 1 shown in FIG. 1, the
inside holder 3 is consequently mounted in the outside shell 2 so
as to be rotatable around a rotational axis S, irrespective of
whether the supporting devices 41, 41 are rotatable in relation to
the outside shell 2 or not.
[0070] In one variant, the inside holder 3 is arranged so as to be
rotatable on the bar-shaped profile 40 and the supporting devices
41, 42 are realized so as to be rotatable in relation to the
outside shell 2. The rotatability is made possible as a result of
mentioned variants. In the position of the rollable transport
container 1 shown in FIG. 1, the inside holder 3 is consequently
mounted in the outside shell 2 so as to be rotatable around a
rotational axis S.
[0071] The variant of a rollable transport container shown in
conjunction with FIG. 1 and the variants described below are set up
for arranging and removing goods for transport. Thus, for example,
the outside shell 2 and the inside holder 3 comprise means in order
to make arranging and removing goods for transport possible. Such
means can refer, for example, to flaps, separable and connectable
housing parts, etc.
[0072] The inside holder 3 shown in conjunction with FIG. 1 and the
variants of inside holders 3 described below preferably comprise a
weight distribution of such a type that when the rollable transport
container rolls along said support, the inside holder 3 always
remains aligned substantially in the same manner in relation to the
support, for example on account of moments of inertia. The weight
is distributed in particular in such a manner that the center of
gravity of the inside holder 3 is situated below a rotational axis
S, about which the inside holder 3 is mounted so as to be rotatable
in the outside shell 2. In one variant, the weight distribution is
influenced by one or several additional weights 31 which are
mounted, for example, on the inside holder 3 in a region which is
situated in a bottom region of the rollable transport container. In
addition to this or as an alternative to it, the weight
distribution can be influenced further in this manner by designing
the inside holder 3 in an asymmetric manner. The weight
distribution is further influenced by the goods to be transported
which are arranged in the inside holder.
[0073] FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and in inside holder
3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2 is
realized in a ball-shaped manner and is rollable along a support.
The inside surface of the outside shell 2 is realized in a
ball-shaped manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to mount
the inside holder 3 so as to be rotatable in the outside shell 2.
The bearing means 4 are realized only in a central region of the
rollable transport container. The central region includes a region
halfway up the rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4
are realized outside said central region for the rotatable bearing
arrangement of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell 2.
[0074] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 2 include a bar-shaped
profile 40, on which the inside holder 3 is rotatably mounted. The
bearing means 4 further include holding devices 43, 44 which are
realized on the bar-shaped profile 40. The bearing means further
include fastening devices 23, 24 which are mounted on the inside
surface of the outside shell 2 and interact with the holding
devices 43, 44. In the position of the rollable transport container
1 shown in FIG. 2, the inside holder 3 is consequently mounted in
the outside shell 2 so as to be rotatable around a rotational axis
S.
[0075] In one variant, the holding devices 43, 44 and the fastening
devices 23, 24 interact in such a manner that the bearing means 4
and consequently the rotational axis S is displaceable into a
limited region in relation to the outside shell 2. The relevant
region is limited by a line or surface which is defined along the
inside surface of the outside shell 2.
[0076] FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and in an inside
holder 3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2
is realized in a cylindrical manner. The cylindrical outside shell
2 comprises one lateral surface and two base surfaces. The lateral
surface is realized for rolling the rollable transport container 1
along a support. The interior of the outside shell 2 is realized in
a cylindrical manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to
mount the inside holder 3 in the outside shell 2 so as to be
rotatable about a rotational axis S. The bearing means 4 are
realized only in a central region of the rollable transport
container. The central region includes a region halfway up the
rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4 are realized
outside said central region for the rotatable bearing arrangement
of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell.
[0077] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 3 include one stud-shaped
projection 25, 26 each, arranged on the inside surface of the two
base surfaces of the cylindrical outside shell 2. The stud-shaped
projections can be formed from the material of the base surfaces or
can be mounted additionally onto the base surfaces. The bearing
means 4 include roller bearings 45, 46 which are mounted on the
stud-shaped projections 25, 26. The bearing means 4 include
receiving means 35, 36 which are realized on the inside holder 3
and into which the roller bearings 45, 46 are inserted. In one
variant, the roller bearings 45, 46 are realized as ball bearings.
In the position of the rollable transport container 1 shown in FIG.
2, the inside holder 3 is consequently mounted in the outside shell
2 so as to be rotatable around a rotational axis S.
[0078] As can be seen from FIG. 3, goods to be transported 5 are
arranged in the inside holder 3.
[0079] The variants of a rollable transport container shown in the
figures comprise bearing means 4 which can comprise roller bearings
at different points. With reference to FIG. 1 or FIG. 2, in one
variant one or several roller bearings are provided on the
bar-shaped profile 40 for the rotatable arrangement of the inside
holder 3. In a further variant, one or several roller bearings are
provided between the bar-shaped profile 40 and the supporting
devices 41, 42. With reference to FIG. 2, in one variant one or
several roller bearings are provided between the bar-shaped profile
40 and the holding devices 43, 44. With reference to FIG. 7, in one
variant one or several roller bearings are provided between the
inside holder 3 and the ring-shaped support device 48. As
mentioned, in one variant roller bearings are realized as ball
bearings.
[0080] It is possible to provide more than two supporting devices
41, 42 which are supported, for example, at regular spacing on the
outside shell 2. In the event of more than two supporting devices,
they can be supported so as to be displaceable or stationary on the
outside shell 2, the inside holder 3 being mounted so as to be
rotatable on the more than two supporting devices.
[0081] The supporting devices 41, 42 can be realized in the manner
of a flattened dome or can comprise, for example, the form of a
segment of a domed ring.
[0082] To increase the strength, supporting devices 41, 42 can be
connected together, for example with wire-shaped connecting
means.
[0083] FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of the section A-A
of the rollable transport container 1 marked in FIG. 3. The goods
to be transported 5 which have been inserted into the inside holder
3 are shown in part by a dotted line.
[0084] As indicated schematically in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the inside
holder 3 and the goods to be transported 5 are realized in such a
manner that the center of gravity of the inside holder 3 is closer
to the support (along which the rollable transport container 1
rolls) than the rotational axis S. When the rollable transport
holder is rolling, the inside holder 3 consequently always remains
aligned substantially in the same manner in relation to the support
and the goods to be transported 5 are exposed during transport only
to the acceleration forces which are generated when the rollable
transport container 1 starts to roll and when the rollable
transport container 1 is braked. Said characteristic applies to the
variants of a rollable transport container shown in the figures
with the center of gravity of the inside holder 3 and of the
rotational axis S positioned in this manner.
[0085] Common to the embodiments shown in the figures is that when
the transport container 1 is rolling, the goods to be transported 5
do not rotate with the transport container 1, but that the goods to
be transported 5 always remain aligned substantially in the same
manner in relation to the direction of gravity G. The direction of
gravity G is marked in each case with an arrow in the figures.
[0086] In the figures shown, the rotational axis S is marked for a
certain position of the rollable transport container 1. Depending
on the realization of the bearing means 4 and of the support along
which the rollable transport body 1 rolls, the slope of the
rotational axis S in relation to the support can change dynamically
or remain the same.
[0087] FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and an inside holder
3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2 is
realized in a ball-shaped manner and is rollable along a support.
The interior of the outside shell 2 is realized in a ball-shaped
manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to mount the inside
holder 3 so as to be rotatable in the outside shell 2. The bearing
means 4 are realized only in a bottom region of the rollable
transport container. The bottom region includes a region below
halfway up the rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4
are realized outside said bottom region for the rotatable bearing
arrangement of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell 2.
[0088] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 5 are formed by first,
second and third sockets 371, 372, 373 which are arranged on the
inside holder 3 and into which first, second and third ball-shaped
rolling bodies 471, 472, 473 are inserted. FIG. 5a shows an
enlarged detail of a third socket 373 into which a third
ball-shaped rolling body 473 is inserted. In the position of the
rollable transport container 1 shown in FIG. 5, the inside holder 3
is consequently mounted in the outside shell 2 so as to be
rotatable around a rotational axis S.
[0089] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of the section B-B
of the rollable transport container 1 marked in FIG. 5.
[0090] FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and in an inside
holder 3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2
is realized in a ball-shaped manner and is rollable along a
support. The interior of the outside shell 2 is realized in a
ball-shaped manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to mount
the inside holder 3 so as to be rotatable in the outside shell 2.
The bearing means 4 are realized only in a central region of the
rollable transport container. The central region includes a region
halfway up the rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4
are realized outside said central region for the rotatable bearing
arrangement of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell.
[0091] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 7 include a ring-shaped
support device 48, the outside surface of which is realized for
support on the inside surface of the outside shell 2. On the inside
surface of the ring-shape support device 48, the inside holder 3 is
mounted so as to be rotatable on stud-shaped projections 491, 492.
The outside surface of the ring-shaped support device 48 is
realized in a manner corresponding to the form of the inside
surface of the outside shell 2, for example domed. In the position
of the rollable transport container 1 shown in FIG. 7, the inside
holder 3 is consequently mounted in the outside shell 2 so as to be
rotatable around a rotational axis S.
[0092] FIG. 8 shows a schematic representation of a cross section
of a variant of a rollable transport container 1 which includes an
outside shell 2 in the form of a rollable body and in an inside
holder 3 for holding goods to be transported. The outside shell 2
is realized in a ball-shaped manner and is rollable along a
support. The interior of the outside shell 2 is realized in a
ball-shaped manner. Bearing means 4 are realized in order to mount
the inside holder 3 so as to be rotatable in the outside shell 2.
The bearing means 4 are realized only in a bottom region of the
rollable transport container. The bottom region includes a region
below halfway up the rollable transport container 1. No bearing
means 4 are realized outside said bottom region for the rotatable
bearing arrangement of the inside holder 3 in the outside
shell.
[0093] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 8 are realized directly on
the inside holder 3 and are set up in order to slip on the outside
shell 2, to slide along the outside shell 2, etc., when said
outside shell is rolling. This can be produced, for example, as a
result of suitable material pairings between the inside holder 3
and the outside shell 2. As an alternative to this or in addition
to it, a lubricant can be provided between the inside holder 3 and
the outside shell 2.
[0094] The bearing means 4 of a variant of a rollable transport
holder shown in FIG. 1 and of a variant of a rollable transport
holder shown in FIG. 7 are freely displaceable around the center of
the outside shell 2. The displacement can be effected as a result
of sliding, slipping, etc. When the rollable transport holder 1 is
rolling, depending on the support and gravitational distribution of
the inside holder 3, this results in a corresponding alignment of
the inside holder 3 with the goods to be transported arranged
therein, for example such that the rotational axis S remains
aligned substantially perpendicular to the direction of the force
of gravity, even if the rollable transport container 1 rolls along
a curved channel.
[0095] The bearing means 4 of a variant of a rollable transport
container 1 shown in FIG. 2 and of a variant of a rollable
transport container shown in FIG. 3, in contrast, are not at all
displaceable or are only displaceable in a limited manner around
the center of the outside shell 2. When the rollable transport
container 1 is rolling, depending on the support and gravitational
distribution of the inside holder 3, this results in a
corresponding alignment of the inside holder 3 with the goods to be
transported arranged therein, for example such that when rolling
along a curved channel, the rotational axis S, in a manner
corresponding to the curvature of the curve, is increasingly
inclined in relation to the direction of the gravitational force G,
in the event of bearing means which are stationary in relation to
the outside shell, or up to a certain curvature is substantially
perpendicular to the direction of the gravitational force G and
then is increasingly inclined, in the event of bearing means which
are displaceable in relation to the outside shell 2 within a
region.
[0096] The bearing means 4 shown in the figures can also be
arranged in a combined manner. Thus, the bearing means 4 shown in
FIG. 1 and the bearing means shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 can be
arranged in a combined manner. Other combinations of bearing means
are possible depending on the task.
[0097] FIG. 1 shows a bottom region Z, a central region Y and a top
region X of the rollable transport container 1. Said regions are
defined at a certain alignment of the transport body 1 in relation
to the direction of the gravitational force G.
[0098] The central region Y of the rollable transport container 1
is covered by a region which encloses the center point and extends
for a certain width upward and downward. The width is defined, for
example, as a quarter, a third, a fifth, etc. of a diameter of a
rollable transport container 1. Flattened dome-shaped regions on
the top and bottom side of the rollable transport container 1 are
excluded from the central region. Said flattened dome-shaped
regions extend, for example, over a quarter, a fifth, etc. of a
diameter of the rollable transport container.
[0099] The bottom region Z of the rollable transport container 1 is
covered by a region which encloses a bottom flattened dome-shaped
region of the rollable transport container 1. Said flattened
dome-shaped region extends, for example, over half, a third, a
quarter, etc. of a diameter of the rollable transport container
1.
[0100] The top region X of the rollable transport container 1 is
covered by a region which encloses a top flattened dome-shaped
region of the rollable transport container 1. Said flattened
dome-shaped region extends, for example, over half, a third, a
quarter, etc. of a diameter of the rollable transport container
1.
[0101] The central region Y and the bottom region Z as well as the
central region Y and the top region X can overlap, abut against one
another or not overlap.
[0102] The interior of the variants of a rollable transport
container shown in the figures is realized in a ball-shaped or
cylindrical manner. Said interior can also comprise an arbitrary
other form. For example, the interior can be realized in a
rectangular-shaped manner. The bearing means are adapted in each
case to the form of said interior. Instead of a flattened
dome-shaped support device, said support device can comprise, for
example, a form that is rectangular-shaped, wedge-shaped, etc.
[0103] With reference to FIG. 5, more sockets and correspondingly
more ball-shaped rolling bodies can also be provided.
[0104] FIG. 9 shows a cross sectional representation of several
sloping supports 102, 103, 104, a sloping transport device 101 and
a storage device 110. The direction of the gravitational force is
marked in FIG. 9, as already in the other figures, by the arrow G.
Goods to be transported 5 are arranged in a transport container 1
at a departure point 202. On account of gravitational acceleration,
the transport container 1 rolls together with the goods to be
transported 5 along a rolling surface along the sloping support
with the reference 102 to the sloping transport device 101. The
transport container 1 is arranged on the transport device 101 and,
with the input of energy, is transported by the transport device
101 from a low level to a high level. The transport device 101
comprises holding means 101 in order to hold the rollable transport
container 1 and in particular to prevent it rolling back to the low
level. The transport container 1 rolls along the sloping support
103 to the storage device 110 and is deposited there. Where
required, the transport container 1 is guided out of the storage
device 110 to the sloping support with the reference 104 and is
rolled along the same in the direction of the destination 302. At
the destination 302 the goods to be transported 5 are removed from
the transport container 1. If desired, the transport container 1 is
returned from the destination 302 to the point of departure
202.
[0105] The arrangement shown in FIG. 9 can be extended in an
arbitrary manner and as a result can form a complete storage system
for storing the most varied goods for transport. A management
system of goods for transport, which is energy-efficient and
ensures the goods to be transported are handled in a careful
manner, is produced with the rollable transport containers.
[0106] The goods to be transported can relate to any goods
whatsoever such as, for example, electronic items, pharmaceuticals,
books, DVDs, etc.
[0107] In order to make the goods to be transported identifiable at
all times without having to open the rollable transport container,
a tag, in particular an RFID element or RFID tag, which can be
read-off with corresponding wirelessly operating means, can be
mounted on the outside or on the inside. A bar code can be provided
as an alternative to or in addition to the RFID element. Both
elements include information concerning the goods to be transported
that makes it possible to identify the goods to be transported in
an unambiguous manner. Other types of mounted codes such as, for
example, matrix codes, color codes, numeric codes, thermocodes or
holograms are also conceivable as information and/or identification
means or security features. All said means are able to be read
optically, magnetically or by radio, either as passive means which
can be interrogated from the outside or as active means which
themselves carry out a data transfer.
[0108] The rollable transport container can be provided over and
above this with its own intelligence, for example in the form of
electronic means for data or signal processing, for example with a
microprocessor and corresponding data storage units. Associated
sending and receiving devices can exchange signals wirelessly with
the environment, in this case, via antennae elements mounted on the
outside surface. However, it is also conceivable to arrange, at
certain points of the shell, electric contacts which are accessible
from the outside and via which internal circuits can be
accessed.
[0109] In conjunction with internal electronic devices of the
rollable transport body, internal energy storage means and/or
energy converters can be provided which store mechanical energy
(spring, gas pressure), thermal energy (heat accumulator) or
electromagnetic energy (capacitor, battery, accumulator, coil etc.)
or generate energy (piezoelectric converter, inductive converter
etc.).
[0110] In addition, it is conceivable, inside the rollable
transport body, to provide position finding means, by way of which
the destination of the unit can be determined and kept track of at
all times. Position finding using the GPS system or comparable
systems is considered here in the extreme case. Permanent magnets,
which can be interrogated from the outside or can trigger switching
operations when passing certain locations, can also be arranged
inside the rollable transport body.
[0111] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 each show a schematic representation of
a cross section in a view from above of a variant of a rollable
transport container 1 which includes an outside shell 2 in the form
of a rollable body and in an inside holder 3 for holding goods to
be transported 5. The outside shell 2 is realized in a ball-shaped
manner and is rollable along a support. The interior of the outside
shell 2 is realized in a ball-shaped manner. Bearing means 4 are
realized in order to mount the inside holder 3 so as to be
rotatable in the outside shell 2. In the position of the transport
container 1 shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the bearing means 4 are
realized only in a central region of the rollable transport
container. The central region includes a region halfway up the
rollable transport container 1. No bearing means 4 are realized
outside said central region for the rotatable bearing arrangement
of the inside holder 3 in the outside shell.
[0112] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 10 include a central
support means 400, outside bearing means 401, 402 and inside
bearing means 403, 404. The outside bearing means 401, 402 are
mounted on the outside shell 2 and comprise stud-shaped
projections, on which the central support means 400 is rotatably
mounted. The inside bearing means 403, 404 are rotatably mounted on
the central support means 400 and comprise stud-shaped projections
on which the inside holder 3 is rotatably mounted. The outside
bearing means 401, 402 form a first rotational axis. The inside
bearing means 403, 404 form a second rotational axis. The first
rotational axis is perpendicular to the second rotational axis. The
bearing means 4 are consequently realized in a cardan-like manner.
The central support means 400 is realized, for example, in a
ring-shaped manner. The transport body 1 can be aligned in relation
to the direction of gravity G such that the bearing means 4 are
situated only in a central region of the transport body 1. In one
variant, a flattened dome connects to the ring-shaped central
support means 400 on both sides, as a result of which a ball-shaped
body is formed which is situated between the inside holder 3 and
the outside shell 2.
[0113] The bearing means 4 shown in FIG. 11 include a central
support means 410, outside bearing means 411, 412 and inside
bearing means 413, 414. The outside bearing means 411, 412 are
realized as balls which are arranged between the outside shell 2
and the central support means 410. To this end, socket-shaped
recesses in which the balls are held are provided in the outside
shell 2 and/or in the central support means 410. The inner bearing
means 413, 414 are realized as balls which are arranged between the
inside holder 3 and the central support means 410. To this end,
socket-shaped recesses in which the balls are held are provided in
the outside shell 2 and/or in the central support means 410. The
outside bearing means 411, 412 form a first rotational axis. The
inside bearing means 413, 414 form a second rotational axis. The
first rotational axis is perpendicular to the second rotational
axis. The bearing means 4 are consequently realized in a
cardan-like manner. The central support means 400 is realized, for
example, in a ring-shaped manner. The transport body 1 can be
aligned in relation to the direction of gravity G such that the
bearing means 4 are situated only in a central region of the
transport body 1. In one variant, a flattened dome connects to the
ring-shaped central support means 400 on both sides, as a result of
which a ball-shaped body is formed which is situated between the
inside holder 3 and the outside shell 2.
* * * * *