Reusable Container Label Removal Using High-Pressure Fluid Jets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing labels from reusable containers are inefficient, as they fail to completely detach labels due to glue residues and sticky substances, leading to incomplete separation during washing.
Innovation Solution
A machine that uses high-pressure fluid jets and a cutting device to detach labels from containers, combined with container rotation and suction to ensure complete removal, even in the presence of adhesive residues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If labels are cut by a blade, then the label structure is disrupted, but the labels remain attached due to glue residues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the label from the container surface by introducing a separation fluid (gas or liquid) between the label and container. This fluid penetrates the adhesive bond and lifts the label away from the container surface, completely removing it including any glue residues. This resolves the contradiction by extracting not just the label material but also the adhesive contamination that prevents complete separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (separation fluid such as gas or liquid) between the label and container surface. This intermediary medium facilitates the separation process by breaking the adhesive bond and enabling complete label removal. The fluid acts as a mediator that transfers the separation force from the jet device to the label-adhesive-container interface.
2Ease of manufacture
If washing is applied to remove labels, then cleaning is performed, but labels with adhesive residues remain attached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing label separation before the washing step. The jet device removes labels with adhesive residues in a preliminary separation stage, creating a clean surface that requires minimal or no washing. This preliminary removal action prevents the need for repeated washing cycles and ensures complete label elimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical washing system with a jet-based separation system. Instead of relying on mechanical agitation and water flow to remove labels during washing, the system uses directed high-pressure jets to precisely separate labels from the container surface before washing occurs, achieving more reliable removal.
3Reliability
If high-pressure fluid jets are used to remove labels, then complete label detachment is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pneumatic or hydraulic principles by using compressed gas or liquid jets to remove labels. This approach replaces complex mechanical cutting and peeling mechanisms with a simpler fluid delivery system. The high-pressure fluid jets can be generated using standard pneumatic or hydraulic components, reducing overall device complexity while achieving reliable label removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies a universal label removal mechanism that can handle different label types, sizes, and adhesive strengths using the same jet-based system. The fluid-operated device provides multi-functional capability by adjusting fluid pressure, flow rate, and jet positioning to accommodate various container and label configurations, reducing the need for multiple specialized removal devices.
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
Effectively separates labels from containers, overcoming adhesive challenges and ensuring containers are ready for reuse.
Implementation Method 1
means 6 for emitting one or more high-pressure jets of a fluid toward the label 4, so as to cause its complete detachment from the container 3
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for removing labels from reusable containers includes a support for at least one reusable container, to which at least one label to be removed is applied on its lateral surface, and is provided with at least one cutting device adapted to perform at least one at least partial cut of the label, and elements for removing the label from the container which include nozzles for emitting at least one high-pressure jet of fluid toward the label.