Container Cap Image Readability via Segmented Surface Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label-less techniques for containers, such as PET bottles, face challenges in achieving high readability of images, particularly barcodes, due to the transparency of the container body and environmental factors, and struggle to accommodate additional information like product names and logos when forming images on the cap, which can be distorted by the cap's boss and recess profiles.
Innovation Solution
A cap design where an image is formed on a region straddling the side surfaces of both the first and second parts, with the pattern of the barcode on the second part's smooth surface and visible letters on the first part's surface, ensuring high readability and allowing space for other information on the cap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an image is formed on the container body using label-less technique, then environmental friendliness is improved, but image readability deteriorates due to container transparency and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is divided into two parts: a first part that separates from the container body and a second part that remains on the container body. The image is formed on a region straddling both parts, with the barcode pattern on the second part (remaining on container) and visible letters on the first part (separating with cap). This segmentation allows the barcode to remain on the container for scanning while providing additional information on the removable cap.
2Measurement precision
If an image is formed on the cap top surface, then image readability is improved, but space for additional information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The image is extended from the top surface of the cap to the side surfaces, straddling both the first and second parts. This dimensional extension provides additional space for including both barcode patterns and visible letters, as well as other product information, without compromising the readability of the barcode portion.
3Area of stationary object
If an image is formed on the cap side surface, then space for additional information is improved, but image distortion from cap curvature worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the cap are assigned different functions: the second part (remaining on container) carries the barcode pattern requiring high precision and minimal distortion, while the first part (separating with cap) carries visible letters and other information where some distortion is acceptable. This local quality differentiation optimizes both readability and information capacity.
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
This design enhances image readability on the cap, reduces distortion from the cap's curvature, and allows for the inclusion of additional information like product names and logos, providing a label-less product with improved readability regardless of environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first irradiation step of irradiating a side surface of the cap with laser light to form the image
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a cap of a container. The cap has an image formed thereon and includes a first part and a second part. When the cap is opened, the first part is separated from a container body of the container, and the second part remains on the container body of the container. The image is formed on a region straddling both a side surface of the first part and a side surface of the second part.