Conveyor Gap Labeling for Accurate Parcel Indicia Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for labeling and sorting parcels along conveying paths are inefficient and lack the ability to accommodate operator variability and various object sizes, leading to errors and increased operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A conveying and labeling apparatus comprising first and second conveyors with a gap between them, equipped with an indicia reading device and a label adding device, which reads existing indicia on parcels as they transfer and applies new labels on the opposite side, while a height limiting device ensures only compliant parcels proceed, facilitating efficient sorting and labeling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If labels are applied to parcels while moving along a conveying path, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in accurately reading indicia on moving parcels
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by positioning the reading device to capture indicia before the parcel moves too far, and by preparing the labeling information in advance. The apparatus reads the first indicia on the incoming parcel and prepares the corresponding second indicia label before the parcel reaches the labeling position, ensuring accurate reading despite motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying apparatus acts as an intermediary that controls and synchronizes the motion between the reading device and the parcel. By managing the parcel's movement through the gap between conveyors and coordinating with the reading and labeling operations, the system maintains measurement precision while enabling continuous processing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus accommodates various object sizes and operator variability, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs dynamic elements including adjustable conveyor speeds, movable reading and labeling devices, and flexible positioning mechanisms. These dynamic components allow the system to adapt to different parcel sizes and operator variations while maintaining operational efficiency, rather than requiring entirely separate systems for each scenario.
3Manufacturing precision
If the gap between conveyors is reduced for better parcel control, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the risk of parcel interference with labeling equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system resolves the spatial conflict by utilizing the vertical dimension - positioning the label adding device above the parcel path rather than at the same level. This vertical separation allows the gap between conveyors to be minimized for better control while preventing interference between parcels and labeling equipment.
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 apparatus enables efficient, accurate, and adaptable labeling and sorting of parcels, reducing errors and operational costs by ensuring proper labeling and sorting based on read indicia, accommodating operator variability, and managing parcel height limitations.
Implementation Method 1
an indicia reading device for reading the first indicia on the first side of the parcel as the parcel is transferred across the gap between the first conveying device and second conveying device, the indicia reading device configured to view the first indicia along a reading axis
Implementation Method 2
the indicia adding device blowing the labels through the air to contact the parcels
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method of using same is provided which includes the use of an apparatus configured to scan and apply labels to parcels moving along a conveyor belt. The apparatus of the present invention includes first and second adjacent conveyors positioned with a gap there between, the gap being sufficiently narrow to allow passage of parcels from the first conveyor to the second conveyor. Parcels crossing the gap are exposed to a reading device having a reading axis passing upwardly through the gap to read indicia. The labels, which are scanned and decoded, provide information which is subsequently sent to a printing device which prints a “second” label which is blown or otherwise transferred to a second side of the parcel. The parcel then exits the second conveyor to be sorted downstream by use of the second label.