Composite Label Stacking for Drug Pack Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label application methods for drug packs of varying sizes and shapes are inefficient, often requiring multiple label printers and manual intervention due to limitations in label size and font density, leading to increased equipment costs and labeling inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a single label form with a small width to create composite labels of almost any width, where labels are lifted from a carrier tape using a dispensing edge and held by a device, allowing for adaptive application to fit different pack dimensions, with control systems ensuring optimal label placement and printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a small label size is chosen to fit the largest possible number of different types of drug packs, then the adaptability to various pack sizes is improved, but the amount of information that can be printed on the label is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The label is divided into multiple segments or layers that can be stacked vertically. Each segment contains a portion of the required information, and by stacking multiple segments, the total information capacity is increased while maintaining a compact vertical profile that fits small pack surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The label layout transitions from a horizontal arrangement to a vertical stacking arrangement. By utilizing the vertical dimension more extensively, the label can accommodate more information lines within the same horizontal width, effectively increasing information capacity without requiring a larger label width.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple label printers with different predefined label sizes are provided to handle various pack sizes, then the adaptability to different pack dimensions is improved, but the device complexity and equipment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single label printer is designed to handle multiple label sizes and configurations by using a universal carrier tape system. The carrier tape can be configured to hold labels of different dimensions, and the printing system can adjust its parameters dynamically, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated printers for different pack sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The label application system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities, where the carrier tape speed, label separation timing, and printing parameters can be modified in real-time based on the required label size and pack dimensions. This dynamic flexibility allows one printer to replace multiple static printers.
3Productivity
If a small label size is used for automated labeling, then the productivity of automated systems is improved, but the manufacturing precision required to prevent label protrusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The label application system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position and alignment of labels during the application process. Sensors detect label placement accuracy in real-time, and the system automatically adjusts parameters such as carrier tape position and label separation timing to maintain precise placement, preventing protrusion while maintaining high-speed automated operation.
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 method enables efficient, automated labeling of drug packs of various sizes using a single label form, reducing equipment costs and manual intervention while ensuring clear, readable information on the labels.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of labels of a predetermined size, which can be printed on their upper side and have an adhesive layer on their underside
Implementation Method 2
which has holes for suction of the label is sucked and adhered to a flat surface
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The method involves moving a label (4A) relative to a label (4B), such that an adhesive layer of the label (4A) is fixed on an upper side of the label (4B) in a displaceable manner, where the label (4A) is retained by a holding device (11). A combination of the labels, which are displaceably fixed on top of each other, is realized and retained by the holding device. The holding device with the combination of the labels is guided to a surface of an object i.e. medicament pack, such that the combination is applied on the surface of the object.