Carousel Labeling Machine Carriage Positioning and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carousel labeling machines face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively interchanging and locking labeling stations with different configurations, such as pre-adhesive labels or adhesive bonding devices, due to variations in seat positioning and alignment.
Innovation Solution
The carousel labeling machine incorporates a supporting carriage with cylindrical tabs, elastic bumpers, and a slider system with hooks and proximity sensors to ensure consistent radial positioning and leveling of carriages, allowing for interchangeable labeling stations with a safety device for operation clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple locking system is used for carriages, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and consistent positioning of labeling stations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated system using proximity sensors to detect carriage presence and a jack mechanism with slider to automatically level and position the carriage on the seat, ensuring consistent radial positioning without complex manual locking procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-positioning of carriages through automatic detection by proximity sensors and self-leveling through the jack and slider mechanism, eliminating the need for complex manual intervention while maintaining precise positioning consistency
2Ease of operation
If manual positioning of carriages is used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity and consistent labeling position deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-positioning of carriages through automatic detection by proximity sensors and self-leveling through the jack and slider mechanism, eliminating the need for complex manual intervention while maintaining precise positioning consistency
Solution Approach 2:
Proximity sensors provide feedback on carriage presence and positioning status, enabling the automated control system to adjust the jack and slider mechanism to achieve correct radial positioning and leveling before locking the carriage in place
3Adaptability or versatility
If seating structure is made adjustable, then adaptability of labeling stations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat design incorporates universal features with standardized locking interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms that can accommodate different carriage types and configurations, enabling one seat structure to serve multiple labeling station requirements without requiring entirely different seating systems
Solution Approach 2:
The seating structure incorporates adjustable elements such as movable components and variable positioning capabilities that allow the seat to adapt to different carriage configurations while maintaining a relatively simple base structure through controlled dynamic adjustments rather than complex permanent modifications
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 solution enables precise and consistent locking of carriages across multiple seats, facilitating the interchangeability of labeling stations and ensuring accurate label application while providing a cost-effective and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
two bumpers 13a, 13b made of elastic material, designed to make contact with the front of the seat 5 that faces them
Data Source
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AI summary
A carousel labeling machine, comprising a plurality of peripheral seats (5) which are each adapted to accommodate a supporting carriage (1) of a labeling station (2) provided with wheels (3a, 3b, 4), each seat (5) being supported integrally by the structure (6) of the carousel and comprising means adapted to lock a carriage (1) in such a position as to ensure the correct application of the labels to the containers (8) that are present on the carousel by the labeling station (2) mounted on the carriage (1).