Adjustable Conveyor Handling for Variable-Size Container Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container handling systems struggle to efficiently manage containers of varying sizes and shapes, and applying labels to cylindrical containers often requires complex and costly rotary label applicators.
Innovation Solution
A positive-controlled container handling system utilizing multiple conveyors that adjust to different sizes and shapes, allowing for automatic adjustment and in-line flow, and eliminating the need for rotary label applicators by using movable and rotatable conveyors to grasp and rotate containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a rotary label applicator is used to apply labels to cylindrical containers, then labeling can be performed, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex rotary label applicator mechanism with a simpler conveyor-based system. Labels are applied while containers move along the conveyor belt, eliminating the need for rotary indexing and complex positioning mechanisms. This substitution reduces system complexity while maintaining labeling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing speed and position variations to accommodate different container sizes and labeling requirements. This dynamic capability enables a single conveyor system to replace multiple fixed-position applicators, reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If a rotary label applicator is used for cylindrical containers, then labeling is achieved, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive rotary label applicator mechanism with a simpler conveyor-based system. Labels are applied while containers move along the conveyor belt, eliminating the need for rotary indexing and complex positioning mechanisms. This substitution reduces system complexity while maintaining labeling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is designed to perform multiple functions: transporting containers, positioning them for labeling, and facilitating label application. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated applicator equipment, reducing overall system cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing container handling systems are used, then handling of standard containers is possible, but efficiency decreases when managing containers of varying sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor belt system incorporates adjustable speed zones and variable positioning capabilities that adapt to different container sizes and shapes. Sensors detect container dimensions and automatically adjust conveyor parameters, maintaining high handling efficiency across varied container types without requiring manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters such as conveyor speed, acceleration rates, and positioning intervals based on detected container characteristics. This parameter adaptation enables efficient handling of both small and large containers, as well as various shapes, within the same system without sacrificing productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a system may include at least two conveyors disposed at a specified distance apart and movable toward each other to reduce the specified distance or away from each other to increase the specified distance. The at least two conveyors may be operable to move a container that is contiguously disposable between the at least two conveyors along a first direction when the at least two conveyors are operated in the first direction and along a second direction that is opposite to the first direction when the at least two conveyors are operated in the second direction.