Dual Optical Sensor Label Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label printers face challenges in accurately sensing label position and detecting preprinted marks on various types of label rolls, requiring a sensing mechanism that can operate in multiple modes to accommodate different label types.
Innovation Solution
A dual optical sensor system, comprising a first and second optical sensor with emitters and detectors, positioned on either side of the paper path, allowing for combined or separate operation in different modes to detect label position and preprinted marks on the label liner and labels, including modes for sensing gaps and preprinted marks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single optical sensor is used to detect label position, then the device complexity is low, but the sensing accuracy and versatility for different label types is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing mechanism is divided into two separate optical sensors (first optical sensor and second optical sensor), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows each sensor to be optimized for specific detection tasks while maintaining overall system accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical sensor is designed with multi-functionality to detect different types of targets (gaps between labels, preprinted marks on label liner, preprinted marks on labels) through configurable emitter and detector combinations, reducing the need for multiple specialized sensors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensing modes are implemented to detect different label types, then the adaptability increases, but the device complexity and operation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing mechanism operates in multiple dynamic modes by selectively activating different emitter-detector combinations within the two optical sensors, allowing adaptation to various label types without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (which emitter and detector are activated) to adapt to different label types, enabling detection of gaps, preprinted marks on label liner, and preprinted marks on labels through electronic configuration rather than mechanical changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dual optical sensor system with multiple sensing modes is used, then the versatility for different label types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically selects and configures the appropriate sensing mode based on the detected label type, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex user configuration while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the optical sensors to automatically adjust the sensing mode and printer settings, creating a self-regulating operation system that maintains simplicity while handling various label types.
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
Enables accurate sensing of label position and preprinted marks across different label types, improving print quality and efficiency by adjusting print settings based on detected marks, such as adhesive location and paper type.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is typically used to detect the position of the labels on the label liner... gaps between the labels on the label liner may be sensed to determine label position
Implementation Method 2
The preprinted marks may denote print areas for the sticky labels... the sensor detects the presence of preprinted marks (e.g., lines or dots) on the paper roll
Data Source
AI summary
A label sensing mechanism for a printer mechanism is provided. The label sensing mechanism may comprise a first optical sensor and a second optical sensor disposed opposite one another, each of the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor may comprise an emitter and a detector. The first optical sensor and the second optical sensor may be positioned on either side of a paper path along which label liner bearing labels to be printed travels. The first optical sensor and the second optical sensor may be operable together or separately in order to detect label position, preprinted marks on the label liner, and preprinted marks on the labels. A method for sensing labels using such a label sensing mechanism and a printer having such a label sensing mechanism are also provided.