Cap Identification Code for Circular Recycling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The process of removing labels from containers for separate recycling is time-consuming, hindering thorough separation and collection in circular recycling processes.

Innovation Solution

A container design featuring a container body with multiple concaves forming a first image, a cap with an identification code, and a diffuse reflectance difference between the image and non-image portions, ensuring the identification code has a higher contrast for reliable reading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a label is attached to the container for product information and design, then the product appeal and identification are improved, but the time required for label removal in recycling processes increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduct information accessibilityVSAvoidlabel removal time

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the identification code from the traditional label and places it directly on the cap surface. This eliminates the need for a separate label while maintaining product identification capabilities, thereby resolving the contradiction between information accessibility and recycling efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The cap serves multiple functions: it seals the container and simultaneously displays the identification code for recycling sorting. By integrating the identification function into the cap structure itself, the patent eliminates the separate label component while maintaining all necessary information display capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If the identification code is placed on the cap surface, then the label removal process is simplified, but the reading reliability may be affected by surface curvature and lighting conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverecycling processing speedVSAvoidcode reading accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a specific surface treatment (concave structures) to the local area where the identification code is placed on the cap. This local modification creates light-diffusing concave portions that enhance code visibility and reading reliability without affecting the overall cap structure or sealing function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes optical properties by creating concave structures that interact with light to enhance the visibility of the identification code. The concave portions create light diffusion effects that improve contrast and make the code more readable under various lighting conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

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 container design facilitates efficient circular recycling by simplifying label removal and ensuring reliable barcode reading, reducing errors and increasing recycling efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

multiple concaves on the container body forms a first image having a first area, the container body has a first diffuse reflectance difference between the first image and a portion excluding the first image

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight diffusion: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

the identification code has a second diffuse reflectance difference between a code portion and a background portion excluding the code portion in the second image. The second diffuse reflectance difference is larger than the first diffuse reflectance difference

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDiffuse reflectance: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12312138B2Container and container product

Publication Date: 2025.05.27 RICOH CO LTD

AI summary

A container includes: a container body; a cap to seal the container body; an identification code on a top surface of the cap; and multiple concaves on the container body. The multiple concaves on the container body forms a first image having a first area, the identification code on the cap forms a second image having a second area smaller than the first area, the container body has a first diffuse reflectance difference between the first image and a portion excluding the first image, and the identification code has a second diffuse reflectance difference between a code portion and a background portion excluding the code portion in the second image. The second diffuse reflectance difference is larger than the first diffuse reflectance difference.