Adhesive Layer Application Device for Security Documents

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching an adhesive layer to adhesive-free covers of badges, value, or security documents are inefficient, leading to increased production time and reduced processing accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a roll receptacle with a carrier film and a detachment and attaching device that adjusts laterally to apply adhesive layers precisely to adhesive-free covers, using a heating unit and cutting device to ensure accurate adhesion, and a suction plate for secure handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional manual or semi-automated methods are used to attach adhesive layers to covers, then operational flexibility is maintained, but production time increases and processing accuracy decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction speedVSAvoidproduction time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated device that uses a sword mechanism to mechanically separate the adhesive layer from the carrier film and simultaneously attach it to the cover. This substitution of manual mechanical systems with automated mechanical systems increases production speed while reducing the time loss associated with manual handling and positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables self-service operation where the sword mechanism automatically performs both the separation of the adhesive layer and its attachment to the cover in a single integrated action. The system requires minimal human intervention, operating autonomously to apply adhesive layers continuously, thereby increasing productivity and eliminating time losses from manual operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional adhesive application methods are used, then process simplicity is maintained, but processing accuracy and adhesive layer integrity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the adhesive application process into distinct functional zones: the sword mechanism for separation, the heating unit for adhesive activation, and the pressing mechanism for attachment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving processing accuracy while managing device complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by using a heating unit to raise the temperature of the adhesive layer to its melting point, transforming it from a solid state to a molten state for easier attachment. This controlled parameter change ensures precise adhesive application and maintains layer integrity, improving manufacturing precision despite the added thermal processing step.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If adhesive layers are applied without precise positioning, then device simplicity is maintained, but adhesive layer alignment and coverage accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive layer positioning accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sword acts as an intermediary tool that precisely positions the adhesive layer during separation from the carrier film. By using the sword as a mediating element between the adhesive roll and the cover, the system achieves accurate adhesive layer positioning and alignment automatically, improving manufacturing precision without complicating operational procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Strength

If the adhesive layer is not heated during application, then energy consumption is reduced, but adhesive bonding strength and attachment quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesive bonding strengthVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes phase transitions by heating the adhesive layer to its melting point, causing it to transition from a solid to a molten state. This phase change enables the adhesive to flow and bond effectively with the cover, significantly improving adhesive bonding strength. The heating is applied only during the brief attachment process, minimizing overall energy consumption while achieving strong bonds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #36Phase transitions

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enables fast, accurate, and automated application of adhesive layers to covers, reducing production time and improving processing accuracy while maintaining the adhesive layer's integrity.

Implementation Method 1

a support (220) formed as a suction plate and comprising one or more suction gripper (223) and a heating unit (221)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Implementation Method 2

a support (220) formed as a suction plate and comprising one or more suction gripper (223)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP3670206B1Device and method for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive-free tape of an id, valuable or security document
Publication Date: 2021.10.20 BUNDESDRUCKEREI GMBH
  • EP3670206B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2b
  • EP3670206B1 patent drawingFigure 2c~2f
  • EP3670206B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device (200) for applying an adhesive layer (301) to a cover (102), comprising a first roll holder (210), a support (220) including a heating unit (221), and a release and application device (230) adjustable between an application position and a release position, which includes a blade (232), wherein the carrier film (302) with the adhesive layers (301) is guided along a first side of the blade (232), and wherein the adhesive-free carrier film (302) is continued along a second side of the blade (232), and which has a pressure area (240) on the first side, wherein an adhesive-free cover (102) can contact an adhesive layer (301) located in the pressure area (240) when the release and application device (230) is in the application position, wherein the adhesive layer (301) detached from the carrier film (302) and adheres to the adhesive-free cover (102),when the release and attachment device (230) is moved into the release position. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.