Decal Marker Alignment Using Edge Sensing and Take-Up Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire marking systems face issues with misalignment of decal markers, leading to incomplete or unclear markings on tires, particularly when using decal-type markers, which are more substantive but prone to misalignment with the striking pin.
Innovation Solution
A decal marker system that utilizes a sensor assembly to accurately align decals with a marker button, ensuring proper adhesion by detecting the leading or trailing edge of decals on a tape and adjusting the take-up roll position accordingly, combined with a control system to manage marker components for precise application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If decal type markers are used instead of continuous marking material, then the marking durability and substance are improved, but the alignment precision between the decal and striking pin deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting the position of the decal on the tape before the marking operation, and pre-adjusts the take-up roll position to ensure proper alignment. The sensor detects the leading or trailing edge of the decal in advance, allowing the system to position the take-up roll correctly before the striking pin engages the decal, thus preventing misalignment issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a sensor to detect the position of the decal on the tape and provides feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the control system adjusts the take-up roll position to maintain proper alignment between the decal and the striking pin. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures consistent alignment precision while using durable decal markers.
2Manufacturing precision
If the take-up roll position is manually adjusted for each decal, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but the operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the decal position using a sensor and autonomously adjusting the take-up roll position without manual intervention. The sensor detects the leading or trailing edge of the decal, and the control system automatically positions the take-up roll, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining high alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensor detection and motor-driven take-up roll positioning. This substitution of manual operation with an automated electromechanical system maintains alignment accuracy while dramatically reducing the time and complexity associated with manual adjustment.
3Manufacturing precision
If a sensor assembly is added to detect decal position, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly serves multiple functions: it detects the position of the decal on the tape, identifies the leading or trailing edge of the decal, and provides feedback for control system adjustment. By making the sensor assembly multi-functional, the system achieves high positioning precision without adding excessive complexity, as a single sensor component performs multiple detection tasks.
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
Ensures uniform and complete application of decals on tire surfaces, addressing misalignment issues and providing a more durable mark than conventional marking materials, while maintaining flexibility in marking types and reducing component swapping needs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor assembly to accurately align decals with a marker button, ensuring proper adhesion by detecting the leading or trailing edge of decals on a tape
Implementation Method 2
A heated marking pin is lowered against the upper side wall of the inflated tire by actuation of an air cylinder. The heated pin transfers pigment or metal foil from a tape to place a mark on the sidewalls of the tire
Data Source
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AI summary
A decal marker used with a marking station interchangeably carries a decal tape and a marking tape and transfers a decal from the decal tape to a surface to be marked. A marking assembly frame and at least one marker carried by the marking assembly frame which carries the decal tape or the marking tape are included. A tape sensor assembly is carried by the at least one marker and detects an edge of the decal so that the at least one marker properly positions the decal for transfer to the surface.