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).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

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.

It further relates to a method for transporting goods to be transported by means of a transport container of this type.

2. Discussion of Related Art

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

The object is achieved by the features of the independent claims.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Another development of the transport container is characterized in that the outside shell is realized in a ball-shaped manner.

Another development of the transport container is characterized in that the outside shell is realized in a cylindrical or barrel-shaped manner.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Another development of the transport container is characterized in that the outside shell and/or the inside holder are composed of several parts.

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.

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.

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.

The goods to be transported can relate to any goods whatsoever such as, for example, electronic items, pharmaceuticals, books, DVDs, etc.

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.

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.

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.).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The invention is to be explained in more detail below by way of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing, in which:

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;

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;

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;

FIG. 4 shows a sectional view of the variant of a rollable transport container shown in FIG. 3;

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;

FIG. 5a shows a view of a detail of a ball-shaped rolling body shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 shows a sectional view of the variant of a rollable transport container shown in FIG. 5;

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;

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;

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;

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

As can be seen from FIG. 3, goods to be transported 5 are arranged in the inside holder 3.

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.

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.

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.

To increase the strength, supporting devices 41, 42 can be connected together, for example with wire-shaped connecting means.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of the section B-B of the rollable transport container 1 marked in FIG. 5.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

With reference to FIG. 5, more sockets and correspondingly more ball-shaped rolling bodies can also be provided.

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.

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.

The goods to be transported can relate to any goods whatsoever such as, for example, electronic items, pharmaceuticals, books, DVDs, etc.

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.

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.

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.).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).