Automated Tape Applicator With Adjustable Width Guides

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for applying floor marking tapes require facility shutdowns and manual application, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially during re-striping or reconfiguring operations.

Innovation Solution

A self-powered, remotely controllable tape applicator with a wheeled housing and adjustable sidewalls that can apply tapes of varying widths, guided by a beacon or programmed path, allowing for automated application without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual tape application is used, then equipment complexity is low, but productivity is low and facility shutdown is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetape application speedVSAvoidapplicator system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tape applicator is designed as a self-powered autonomous system that navigates independently using onboard sensors and processors to detect beacons and follow programmed paths, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining high productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical tape application is replaced with an automated system that uses motorized propulsion, electronic control, and sensor-based navigation to perform tape application tasks, significantly improving productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated tape application is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefacility operation continuityVSAvoidpower source and propulsion system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tape applicator integrates multiple functions into a single device including navigation, tape dispensing, path following, and autonomous operation, allowing one system to perform what would otherwise require multiple separate pieces of equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines the power source, propulsion mechanism, navigation controls, and tape application mechanisms into a single integrated unit, reducing the overall complexity compared to using separate systems for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Loss of time

If manual tape application is used, then equipment cost is low, but time consumption is high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefacility shutdown durationVSAvoidwheeled housing and navigation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary navigation and path planning using programmed routes and beacon detection before tape application begins, allowing the facility to remain operational while the applicator autonomously positions and applies tape along predetermined paths

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250256936A1Automated Machines and Methods to Apply Tape to a Surface

Publication Date: 2025.08.14 SHIELDMARK

AI summary

A machine to apply tape to a surface includes a handle for manipulation by a user connected to a wheeled applicator allowing the tape to be dispensed from the applicator and rolled onto a surface. The applicator includes two sidewalls adjustable relative to each other on guide bars to define space therebetween where rolls of tape having different widths can be accommodated. The sidewalls further include bottom portions shaped complimentarily with the wheel to define a path sized for a width of the tape around the wheel, and where the sidewalls further define a path sized for the width of the tape over at least one guide bar. The applicator also may include a clutched take-up reel operatively connected to the wheel, where rotation of the wheel causes the take-up reel to rotate and collect a liner.