Cap Shrink Label Barcode Layout for Readable Recyclable Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers face issues with reading errors on code data while attempting to increase recyclability, particularly when using laser-marked one-dimensional barcodes on transparent surfaces or labels that hinder recycling processes.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a cap with a shrink label covering its peripheral wall, where a one-dimensional barcode is displayed such that the ratio of barcode length to cap radius satisfies L/(2×π×R) < 0.45, ensuring easy readability and recyclability by avoiding laser marking and reducing resin use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a one-dimensional barcode is laser-marked on a transparent container surface, then the barcode can be formed on the container, but reading errors increase due to poor contrast and readability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a label as an intermediary carrier for the barcode, separating the barcode formation process from the transparent container surface. The label provides a contrasting background that ensures readable barcode scanning, while the container itself remains transparent and recyclable. This mediator resolves the conflict between easy barcode formation and accurate reading.
2Measurement precision
If a label is attached to the container to display barcode, then barcode readability improves, but recyclability decreases due to separation difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the label only to the cap portion of the container rather than the entire container body. This localized application allows the barcode to be placed on the cap where it is easily accessible for scanning, while the main container body remains label-free and fully recyclable. The cap can be separated from the container body, facilitating recycling processes.
3Measurement precision
If the barcode is made larger to improve readability, then scanning accuracy increases, but more resin material is required which reduces recyclability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension of the cap by arranging the barcode vertically along the cap's height rather than horizontally across its width. This dimensional change allows the barcode to achieve sufficient length for accurate scanning while being confined to a small area on the cap, minimizing resin material requirements and maintaining recyclability.
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
The design reduces reading errors and enhances recyclability by ensuring barcode readability and minimizing resin usage through the use of a shrink label on the cap, facilitating easy separation and collection.
Implementation Method 1
a shrink label to cover at least the peripheral wall of the cap
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes: a container body to accommodate an object; a cap detachably attachable to the container body, the cap having a peripheral wall; and a shrink label to cover at least the peripheral wall of the cap and have a one-dimensional barcode displayed on the shrink label. An expression below is satisfied, L/(2×circular constant×R)<0.45, where L is a display width of the one-dimensional barcode in a peripheral direction of the peripheral wall, and R is a radius of the peripheral wall.