Dual Conveyor Labeling Machine with Adjustable Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for applying labels or markings to containers are limited in their ability to handle containers of varying sizes and configurations efficiently, requiring time-consuming setup changes and being restricted in the types, sizes, and configurations of containers they can process.
Innovation Solution
The machine features a dual conveyor system with adjustable vertical distance between upper and lower conveyor tracks, allowing independent movement of shuttles along these tracks, and multiple applicators positioned along the tracks to accommodate different container sizes and apply various markings, including labels and indicia, using sensors for precise positioning and quality control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing machines use fixed conveyor tracks for labeling containers, then the labeling process is simple and reliable, but the machine cannot handle containers of varying sizes and configurations efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable conveyor tracks that can be repositioned vertically to accommodate different container heights. The LC and UC tracks can be independently adjusted using jacks or other positioning mechanisms, allowing the machine to adapt to various container configurations without requiring complete reconfiguration of the labeling system.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual conveyor system with adjustable tracks serves multiple functions: it can handle different container sizes, maintain proper labeling positions, and accommodate various container configurations. This universal design allows a single machine to perform labeling operations across diverse container types without requiring multiple specialized machines.
2Productivity
If existing machines require time-consuming setup changes to handle different container types, then the labeling accuracy can be optimized for each container type, but the production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable conveyor tracks enable quick reconfiguration between different container types by simply changing the vertical position of the tracks using jacks or positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for time-consuming setup changes while maintaining labeling accuracy for each container type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows pre-positioning of the LC and UC tracks at optimal locations for different container types. Operators can prepare the track positions in advance or quickly adjust them between production runs, minimizing setup time while ensuring proper labeling alignment for each container configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing machines are limited in container types they can handle, then the machine structure remains simple, but the versatility for different container configurations is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The independently adjustable LC and UC conveyor tracks provide dynamic adaptability to handle various container types including different heights, widths, and configurations. The adjustment mechanisms (jacks, positioning systems) allow operators to easily reconfigure the track positions without complex procedures, maintaining operational simplicity while expanding container type flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine (10, 224, 258, 274, 292, 310) is selectively operative to apply markings such as labels, sleeves, decorations and indicia to containers (58, 130, 162, 254). The machine includes a lower conveyor (LC) (14) and an upper conveyor (UC) (28). LC shuttles (46) are selectively movable around an LC track (16). UC shuttles (52) are selectively movable around a UC track (30). The LC and UC shuttles are selectively movable to engage a container vertically intermediate of respective LC and UC shuttles. In the container engaged position each container is selectively rotatably and linearly movable so as to be positioned in engagement with applicators (108, 256, 296, 298, 300, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324). The applicators are selectively operative to apply markings to respective containers in operative engagement therewith in a precise and repeatable manner.