Foam Labeling Strip Structure for Accurate Terminal Block Printing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing labeling materials for electrical installations face challenges such as slippage during printing, limited application versatility, and the need for separate print media for different terminal block lengths, along with difficulties in applying and removing labels without residue or additional fastening means.

Innovation Solution

A labeling material comprising a top layer with a foam layer, shaped elements for form-fitting attachment, and optically detectable position marks, designed for continuous use and featuring a multilayer PET-GAG structure, which allows for compression during printing and form-fitting attachment to terminal blocks, ensuring high printing accuracy and versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If pre-trimmed labeling material is used, then the labeling material is intended only for a specific terminal block length, but separate print media must be kept available for different terminal block lengths

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapplication versatilityVSAvoidnumber of print media

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The labeling material is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different terminal block lengths through the foam layer's compression capability and the shaped element's form-fitting attachment, eliminating the need for separate print media for different applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If the labeling material is fed through a printer, then printing can be performed, but slippage occurs during feeding and passing through

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting accuracyVSAvoidfeeding stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The foam layer's compressibility parameter is utilized during printing to maintain stability, while the shaped element provides form-fitting attachment that prevents slippage during feeding and passing through the printer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the foam layer is compressed during printing, then sufficient stability is achieved, but a spacing is formed between the molded element and the top layer in the relaxed state

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting stabilityVSAvoidposition accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The foam layer transitions from a compressed state during printing (providing stability) to a relaxed state with spacing (allowing form-fitting attachment), with the shaped element maintaining precise positioning through its geometric design that engages with the receptacle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If additional fastening means are used for application, then secure attachment is achieved, but the process becomes more complex and leaves residue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidapplication simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shaped element provides form-fitting attachment to the receptacle through its geometric design, enabling secure application and removal without residue or additional fastening means

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides stable and accurate labeling over longer lengths, allows for easy application and removal without residue, and supports multiple applications with a single print medium, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in electrical installation marking.

Implementation Method 1

The foam layer can be compressed during the labeling or printing of the top layer, for example by means of a thermal transfer printer, in order to achieve sufficient stability during the printing process. In the relaxed, non-compressed state of the foam layer, a spacing is formed between the molded element and the top layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12008928B2Labelling material for marking electrical installations and method for producing a labelling strip

Publication Date: 2024.06.11 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG

AI summary

Labeling material for marking electrical installations, comprising a top layer, the top layer having a top surface which is designed for printing and a joining surface facing away from the top surface, comprising a foam layer, comprising at least one shaped element for form-fitting attachment to a receptacle, the foam layer comprising a foamed material, the foam layer being integrally bonded to the top layer in the region of the joining surface, and the shaped element being arranged at a spacing from the top layer.