Elastic Labeling Article with Bonded Tag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing merchandise labeling methods, such as those using elastic and non-elastic bands, face challenges in providing a one-step, economical solution for reliable tagging and banding, especially for clumps of agricultural produce, due to issues with bond strength, compressive forces, and reliability of machine-readable codes under tension.
Innovation Solution
A labeling article comprising an elastic substrate with a cut and a non-elastic tag bonded to it, allowing for simultaneous application and providing reliable scanning capabilities without the need for additional steps or equipment, utilizing a composite web structure with perforations for easy separation and application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If preformed bands with bonded elastic and non-elastic sections are used, then banding function is achieved, but bond separation occurs under stretching tension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the elastic substrate and tag into a single unitary structure where the tag is integrally formed with the elastic substrate, eliminating the need for separate bonds that could fail under tension. This merging of components resolves the contradiction by ensuring the tagging and banding functions work together without separation risks.
2Ease of manufacture
If in situ bonding of band ends is performed, then banding is achieved, but bonding equipment or release liner removal is required at the site
Solution Approach 1:
The tag is pre-attached to the elastic substrate in the manufacturing process, so that when the band is applied to merchandise, the tagging function is already integrated. This preliminary action eliminates the need for bonding equipment or release liner removal at the application site, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and device complexity.
3Productivity
If endless rubber bands are used, then banding is achieved, but a separate tag attachment step is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tagging and banding functions into a single integrated component where the tag is permanently attached to the elastic substrate. This allows simultaneous tagging and banding in one step, eliminating the separate tag attachment step and improving productivity while reducing process complexity.
4Ease of operation
If tags are attached to rubber bands by encircling, then single-step application is achieved, but manufacturing economy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tag is pre-attached to the elastic substrate during manufacturing using cost-effective methods, enabling single-step application at the point of use. This preliminary attachment action resolves the contradiction by making both manufacturing and application simple and economical.
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 efficient, single-step tagging and banding of merchandise, including clumps, with enhanced bond strength and reliable machine-readable codes, improving operational efficiency and economy.
Implementation Method 1
an expandable loop of elastic material... stretching and contracting to secure merchandise in the loop
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive on the other side of the tag
Data Source
AI summary
A labeling article includes an elastic substrate and a tag. The elastic substrate has first and second opposed surfaces and a cut. The tag has third and fourth opposed major surfaces. An entirety of the third major surface overlies a portion of the first major surface. The third major surface is bonded to the first major surface. At least a portion of the tag is positioned adjacent the cut. In another aspect, a labeling article includes a first member and a second member. The first member is formed of an elastic material that includes a fastening opening therein and an interior portion that projects into the fastening opening. The second member is formed of an inelastic material that overlies at least the interior portion. The second and first members are bonded together. A composite web of labeling articles includes an elastic material web and first and second tag material strips.