Backing Ribbon Splicing Assembly for Continuous Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional labeling machines require periodic shutdowns to manually manage the spool change of backing ribbon, as the adhesive cannot be applied on a region with labels, leading to inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A feeder assembly with a splicing device and detection system that automatically cuts and splices the backing ribbon, allowing seamless transition between spools without stopping the machine, using a cutting device and sensors to detect label absence and actuate splicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual spool change is used, then the machine can be stopped to change ribbons, but productivity decreases due to periodic shutdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs splicing automatically without human intervention. The splicing device detects when a spool is depleted and autonomously connects the new spool to the existing ribbon feed, eliminating the need for operators to stop the machine for spool changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The splicing operation is performed in advance before the ribbon is completely depleted. The system prepares and executes the splicing connection proactively, ensuring continuous ribbon supply without interruption to the labeling process.
2Productivity
If automated splicing device is added, then productivity improves by avoiding shutdowns, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splicing device integrates multiple functions into a single compact unit: it holds the new spool, applies adhesive to connect ribbons, and coordinates with the detection system. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining automated splicing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The splicing device serves multiple purposes: it stores备用 ribbon spools, performs the actual splicing operation, and works in conjunction with detection sensors. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering significant productivity improvements through automated operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If double adhesive is applied on region with labels, then splicing can be performed, but label separation occurs at label application assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive application is localized to specific regions of the ribbon where no labels are present. The system identifies label-free zones and applies adhesive only in those areas, ensuring both successful splicing and prevention of label separation during subsequent processing.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for feeding backing ribbon for adhesive labels for labeling products to be labeled, comprising a splicing device and at least two supporting elements for the backing ribbon, the splicing device being intended to perform on command the splice between a first splicing region, formed on a first backing ribbon being unwound from a first supporting element, and a second splicing region, formed on a second backing ribbon wound on a second supporting element, the first backing ribbon supporting a plurality of adhesive labels which are arranged, mutually spaced, on the face directed toward the second splicing region; the first backing ribbon having, when associated with the respective first supporting element, at least one portion that is free from self-adhesive labels and forms the first splicing region; the portion is located substantially at the end of the first backing ribbon that is associated with the first supporting element.